Here’s a structured outline and key components for your dissertation on  This framework integrates theoretical foundations, empirical analysis, and policy insights tailored to Southeast Asia’s unique context.

1. Introduction

  • Research Background:
    • Importance of FDI in driving economic growth, technology transfer, and job creation in emerging markets.
    • Southeast Asia’s rise as a global FDI hub (e.g., Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines).
    • Contrast FDI trends in ASEAN vs. other emerging markets (e.g., Latin America, Africa).
  • Research Problem:
    • What factors explain disparities in FDI inflows across Southeast Asian economies?
    • How do institutional, economic, and geopolitical factors shape FDI decisions?
  • Research Objectives:
    • Identify key determinants of FDI in Southeast Asia.
    • Analyze the role of policy frameworks, market size, labor costs, infrastructure, and political stability.
    • Provide actionable recommendations for policymakers and investors.

2. Literature Review

  • Theoretical Frameworks:
    • Dunning’s OLI Paradigm (Ownership, Location, Internalization advantages).
    • Institutional Theory: Impact of regulatory quality, corruption, and political stability.
    • Eclectic Paradigm: Role of market size, labor costs, and resource availability.
  • Empirical Studies:
    • Global FDI trends and lessons from China, India, and Latin America.
    • Southeast Asia-specific studies: E.g., Vietnam’s FDI boom post-2000, Singapore’s institutional advantages.
    • Gaps in existing literature: Understudied role of digital infrastructure, regional trade agreements (e.g., RCEP), and geopolitical competition (U.S.-China tensions).

3. Methodology

  • Mixed-Methods Approach:
    • Quantitative Analysis:
      • Data Sources: World Bank, UNCTAD, ASEAN databases, national statistics.
      • Variables: FDI inflows (dependent), GDP growth, labor costs, infrastructure quality, ease of doing business, tax rates, political stability index.
      • Models: Panel data regression (fixed/random effects) for ASEAN countries (2010–2023).
    • Qualitative Case Studies:
      • Country Selection: Compare high-FDI (Vietnam, Singapore) vs. lower-FDI (Cambodia, Myanmar) economies.
      • Interviews/Surveys: Insights from multinational corporations (MNCs), policymakers, and industry reports.
  • Limitations: Data availability for some ASEAN countries (e.g., Laos, Myanmar), endogeneity issues.

4. Case Study: Southeast Asia

  • Regional Overview:
    • ASEAN’s GDP growth, population demographics, and integration via ASEAN Economic Community (AEC).
    • Sectoral FDI trends: Manufacturing (Vietnam, Thailand), services (Singapore), natural resources (Indonesia).
  • Country-Specific Analysis:
    • Vietnam: Low labor costs, trade agreements (EVFTA, CPTPP), and export-led growth.
    • Singapore: Strategic location, strong institutions, and tax incentives.
    • Indonesia: Resource abundance vs. bureaucratic hurdles.
    • Myanmar/Cambodia: Political instability and weak infrastructure.

5. Empirical Findings

  • Key Determinants of FDI:
    1. Market Size (GDP, consumer base): Positive correlation with FDI.
    2. Labor Costs and Skills: Low wages attract manufacturing FDI, but skilled labor matters for tech sectors.
    3. Infrastructure: Ports, roads, and digital connectivity (e.g., Thailand’s EEC).
    4. Institutional Factors: Ease of doing business, corruption control (Singapore ranks #1).
    5. Trade Openness: FTAs (e.g., RCEP) boost export-oriented FDI.
    6. Geopolitics: U.S.-China decoupling driving FDI diversion to Vietnam/Thailand.
  • Unexpected Results:
    • Weak significance of tax incentives compared to regulatory stability.
    • Rising importance of ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) criteria among investors.

6. Policy Implications

  • For Governments:
    • Streamline regulations and reduce bureaucratic red tape (e.g., Indonesia’s Omnibus Law).
    • Invest in infrastructure (e.g., Malaysia’s Penang ICT hub).
    • Leverage FTAs and position as a neutral hub amid U.S.-China tensions.
  • For Investors:
    • Prioritize countries with stable institutions and skilled labor pools.
    • Monitor ESG compliance risks (e.g., Indonesia’s palm oil sector).

7. Conclusion

  • Summary of Contributions:
    • Identified institutional quality and geopolitical factors as critical FDI drivers in Southeast Asia.
    • Highlighted divergences between ASEAN economies and policy lessons for other emerging markets.
  • Future Research:
    • Impact of digital transformation (e.g., Industry 4.0) on FDI.
    • Role of climate change and green investment trends.

8. References

  • Key Authors/Works:
    • Dunning, J. H. (2000). The Eclectic Paradigm of International Production.
    • UNCTAD’s World Investment Reports (2020–2023).
    • ASEAN Secretariat reports on FDI policies.
    • Case studies from Journal of International Business Studies and Emerging Markets Review.

Appendices

  • Data Tables: Regression results, FDI inflows by country/sector.
  • Interview Transcripts: Quotes from MNC executives/policymakers.
  • Maps/Charts: FDI distribution across Southeast Asia.

Tips for Success

  • Use Comparative Analysis: Contrast ASEAN with China/India to highlight unique regional factors.
  • Leverage Primary Data: Partner with ASEAN trade agencies or chambers of commerce for surveys.
  • Address COVID-19 Impact: Discuss pandemic-induced shifts (e.g., supply chain diversification).
This structure balances academic rigor with practical relevance, positioning your dissertation as a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and investors focused on emerging markets