Abstract Based on knowledge exchange theory and transaction-cost theory, this study examines the relationship between inter-firm communication mechanism and oversea knowledge acquisition according to different supplier roles. It also investigates the moderating effect of specific investment on these relationships. Data is analyzed based on 229 suppliers in China. The results suggest: Both personal communication mechanism and technology-based communication mechanism positively affect overseas knowledge aquisition. However, the relevance of these communication configurations differs for various supplier roles. Specific investment has different moderating effects on the relationship between inter-firm communication mechanism and oversea knowledge acquisition.
2017, Vol. 14 
