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Course profile

Doing Business in Asia (IBUS7312)

Study period
Sem 2 2025
Location
St Lucia
Attendance mode
In Person

Course overview

Study period
Semester 2, 2025 (28/07/2025 - 22/11/2025)
Study level
Postgraduate Coursework
Location
St Lucia
Attendance mode
In Person
Units
2
Administrative campus
St Lucia
Coordinating unit
Business School

The purpose of this course is to understand the environmental and organisational issues confronted by firms doing business in Asia. These include various aspects of the external environment, such as social, economic, political, cultural, legal, customer and competitive factors, as well as the strategic and organisational responses of firms to the complex, diverse and dynamic business challenges in Asia. Using real-life company cases, participants will learn how to make managerial decisions and solve business problems confronted by firms in Asia.

IBUS7312 – Doing Business in Asia

Explore Strategy, Culture & Opportunity Across Asia’s Diverse Business Landscapes

Asia is not just the engine room of global growth — it is a dynamic, diverse, and often misunderstood region where history, innovation, and opportunity collide. In this exciting course, you’ll uncover what it really takes to succeed in Asia’s business environments — from the cutting-edge boardrooms of Singapore and Seoul to the negotiation tables in Tokyo, Mumbai, Manila, and beyond.

Far from being a single economic bloc, Asia is a mosaic of distinctive business systems, national priorities, and cultural norms. Through interactive seminars, real-world simulations, and weekly country spotlights, you’ll compare and contrast the strategic, social, and economic factors shaping how business is done across the region.

Whether you’re an aspiring consultant, global strategist, or cultural bridge-builder, this course helps you develop the tools to think critically and act ethically in Asia’s rapidly shifting business ecosystems.

What You'll Learn

  • How to navigate different business systems, cultures, and regulatory landscapes across major Asian economies
  • How to assess opportunities and risks using macro- and micro-level analysis tools (PEST, stakeholder mapping, institutional frameworks)
  • How to reflect on and improve your own negotiation style and cross-cultural awareness
  • How international firms manage their entry, adaptation, and growth strategies across diverse Asian markets


Countries You’ll Explore

Japan | South Korea | China | Singapore | India | Vietnam | Philippines | Indonesia – and more in the Asian region.


How You’ll Learn

  • Weekly interactive workshops, country simulations, and group projects
  • Team-based presentations on live regional developments
  • Negotiation exercises designed to build real-world interpersonal and strategic skills
  • Reflective assessments to deepen your personal learning journey

 

Ethical Impact

As part of UQ Business School’s commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. (SDGs) and the United Nations Principles for Responsible Management Education (UN PRME), this course invites you to think beyond profit and consider how sustainable, ethical strategies can create value across borders.

 

Who Should Enrol

Ideal for students interested in:

  • International business and strategy
  • Cross-cultural communication and global leadership
  • Sustainable development in Asia
  • Working with or within multinational companies operating in Asia-Pacific

Course requirements

Assumed background

Some understanding of international business concepts. Initiative to learn, think, and apply and share knowledge about doing business in Asia.

Incompatible

You can't enrol in this course if you've already completed the following:

IBUS3304

Restrictions

Quota: Minimum of 15 enrolments

Course staff

Course coordinator

Lecturer

Timetable

The timetable for this course is available on the UQ Public Timetable.

Additional timetable information

Please note: Teaching staff doᅠnotᅠhave access to the timetabling system to help with class allocation. Therefore, should you need help with your timetable and/or allocation of classes, please ensure you emailᅠbusiness.mytimetable@uq.edu.auᅠfrom your UQ student email account with the following details:

  • Full name,
  • Student ID, and
  • the Course Code

Aims and outcomes

The course aims to provide you with a foundation in the principles and practices of doing business in Asia – one of the most dynamic regions in today's global economy. Through a variety of individual and team-based pedagogical activities in engaged real-life cases and simulations, you will learn aboutᅠthe key aspects of the business environment in the major economies of Asia, the problems and issues confronted by firms operating in Asia, and the ways in which multinational firms successfully manage their operations in Asia.ᅠ

Learning outcomes

After successfully completing this course you should be able to:

LO1.

Apply knowledges of the different business environments, cultures and negotiation styles in Asia to multi-disciplinary business cases. 

LO2.

Identify the environmental and organisational challenges and opportunities for doing business in Asia. 

LO3.

Critically analyse the challenges and opportunities of international firms doing innovative business in Asia. 

LO4.

As an individual and in groups, recommend strategies to stakeholders to build collaborative relationships and communities of practice. 

LO5.

Respectfully discuss the commonality and diversity in business principles and practices in Asia and Australia (e.g., culture, Indigenous perspectives, legal environment, language and negotiation, etc.).

Assessment

Assessment summary

Category Assessment task Weight Due date
Presentation, Reflection Asian Country Analysis - WKS Oral Presentation
  • Team or group-based
  • In-person
40% (20% team presentation; 10% Q&A; 10% individual reflection)

Week 5 Mon - Week 13 Fri

Each team will be allocated a seminar week to present and all team members are required to present at their respective sessions.

Paper/ Report/ Annotation Reflective Essay
  • Online
30%

18/09/2025 2:00 pm

Essay/ Critique Business In An Asian Region
30%

24/10/2025 2:00 pm

Assessment details available on Blackboard.

Assessment details

Asian Country Analysis - WKS Oral Presentation

  • Team or group-based
  • In-person
Mode
Activity/ Performance, Written
Category
Presentation, Reflection
Weight
40% (20% team presentation; 10% Q&A; 10% individual reflection)
Due date

Week 5 Mon - Week 13 Fri

Each team will be allocated a seminar week to present and all team members are required to present at their respective sessions.

Other conditions
Peer assessment factor.

See the conditions definitions

Task description

Assessment Overview: Group Presentation, Q&A, and Individual Reflection

Total Weighting: 40%

  • Group Presentation – 20%
  • Q&A Engagement – 10%
  • Individual Reflection – 10%

Rationale for Course Coordinator-Formed Teams

To ensure a fair, inclusive, and pedagogically sound learning environment, student teams for the group assessment tasks will be formed by the Course Coordinator rather than by self-selection. This decision is grounded in both educational research and the specific learning outcomes of the course.

1. Equity and Inclusion

Team formation by the coordinator prevents the exclusion or isolation of students who may not yet have established peer networks, such as international, first-year, or remote learners. This supports UQ's equity and diversity goals and creates a more inclusive learning environment for all students.

2. Diversity of Perspectives

Deliberately structured teams ensure a mix of backgrounds, experiences, and thinking styles, which enhances group creativity and problem-solving. Exposure to diverse viewpoints is especially important in a course focused on international business and cross-cultural negotiation in Asia.

3. Balanced Team Composition

Coordinator-formed teams allow for the balancing of skills (e.g., communication, research, analytical ability), roles (e.g., leader, presenter, editor), and schedules to minimise dysfunction. Where possible, MBTI, prior performance, or student interest areas may be considered to create optimal team dynamics. The teaching team will issue you with a link to complete in Week 1 as part of the ice-breaker challenge and we will share our 'mildly scientific' profiles via a Padlet!

4. Real-World Preparation

In professional settings, individuals rarely choose their teams. Forming teams mimics this reality and helps students develop adaptability, collaboration, and interpersonal skills—core graduate attributes at UQ and essential competencies in international business contexts.

5. Minimising Group Conflict and Free-Riding

Research shows that self-selected teams can lead to social loafing, uneven workloads, or dominance by certain individuals. Coordinator-created teams, combined with clear assessment criteria and optional peer review, reduce the likelihood of these issues.


Task 1: Group Presentation (20%)

Students will be assigned to teams by the course coordinator. Each team will deliver a 20-minute oral presentation during one of the seminar weeks, focusing on a recent development or current event in an assigned Asian country.

The presentation should explore the business implications of the issue for an international company operating in that country. Team and country allocations will be finalised by Week 3, with the schedule published on Blackboard.

Your team must:

  • Identify the core problem(s) or strategic decisions arising from the event
  • Apply relevant country and industry analysis frameworks
  • Examine implications for doing business in that specific Asian context
  • Explore and evaluate alternative responses using qualitative and/or quantitative analysis
  • Present recommendations and a clear implementation plan

Presentation Logistics:

  • Duration: 20 minutes (maximum), followed by 5–10 minutes of Q&A and class engagement
  • All team members must be present during delivery
  • Use relevant theory and frameworks; do not read directly from notes or slides
  • Submit PowerPoint slides to Blackboard prior to your presentation session
  • Include at least 10 authoritative references, of which a minimum of 5 must be from refereed A/A* journals
  • A compulsory practice run is required before your scheduled session
  • Presentations will be recorded for assessment purposes in line with UQ policy

Peer assessment may be activated upon request. Please consult the Assessment section on Blackboard for the full marking rubric, presentation schedule, and team formation details.


Task 2: Q&A Session (10%)

Following the presentation, each team will participate in a 5–10-minute Q&A session, evaluated based on the following framework: ABCOD

Answer – Back up – Confirm –Opportunity– Depersonalise

  • Answer – Clarify and directly respond to the question
  • Back Up – Support your answer with theory, examples, or evidence
  • Confirm – Check that your response addressed the question effectively
  • Opportunity – Treat the question as a chance to explore ideas further
  • Depersonalise – Respond professionally without being defensive

This interactive component assesses your ability to think critically and engage with your peers under pressure.


Task 3: Individual Reflection (10%)

Each student will submit an individual reflection on their learning from the team project.

A structured template with guiding questions (at both the individual and team level) will be provided on Blackboard. This template must be used.

Your reflection must be submitted in the same week as your team presentation. Late submissions may not be accepted unless prior arrangements are made in accordance with UQ policy.


AI Statement

The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT) tools is not permitted for any component of this oral presentation assessment, including the group presentation, Q&A, or individual reflection.

This is a communication-based task that requires original, student-generated content.

Unauthorised use of AI or MT may constitute academic misconduct under the UQ Student Code of Conduct.

Submission guidelines

Submit slides before presentation and at least two hours prior to presentation the latest. Submit reflection note the same week of the presentation and no submissions later than that are accepted or allowed.

Deferral or extension

You cannot defer or apply for an extension for this assessment.

Extensions or deferrals are not available for this presentation. An extension may be available for the submitted material only.

Late submission

A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.

10% Late Penalty applies to submitted material only. Late submissions are not accepted for in-class presentations. Failure to present at the scheduled time will result in a mark of zero for the presentation portion of this assessment.

Submit your Buddy Check rating after your presentation.

Reflective Essay

  • Online
Mode
Written
Category
Paper/ Report/ Annotation
Weight
30%
Due date

18/09/2025 2:00 pm

Other conditions
Time limited.

See the conditions definitions

Task description

Assessment Overview

This assessment consists of two components:

1. Reflective Essay (25% weighting)

You are required to write a first-person perspective reflective essay based on three negotiation simulations you participated in during Weeks 2–6. These reflections should focus on:

  • Your preparation and planning
  • Your negotiation behaviour and style
  • The outcomes of the negotiations
  • Key lessons learned and how you intend to improve in the future

Use the template provided on Blackboard to guide your structure and analysis. All three simulations must have been completed using the QR code submission system during class to be eligible for inclusion.

In-class reflective activities will support this task. Attendance is strongly encouraged, as these activities are designed to develop your reflective learning skills. Be sure to clearly state which sessions informed your reflections, and attach your QR submission details to your essay as evidence of participation.

  • Word limit: 1,500 words
  • Format: APA 7th or Harvard style referencing (minimum 6 academic sources, with at least 50% from peer-reviewed A/A* journal articles)
  • Presentation: 12-point Times New Roman font, double-spaced, 1-inch margins
  • Cover Page: Include your full name and student ID

The marking rubric is available on Blackboard. Please review it carefully before submission.

  • Submission: Upload your essay to the designated Turnitin link on Blackboard.


2. In-Class Activity Submission (5% weighting)

You will earn an additional 5% through active participation in-class case-based questions in Week 12 (question bank) and Week 13 (self-reflection on three presentation observations between Week 5 - Week 12 on the strength and areas for improvement).

The question bank of Week 12 based on a case study of investing in Indonesia (worth 2.5%) and the three presentation observations questions of Week 13 (worth 2.5% per week) will be completed in class using a QR code submission system. You will be provided with the QR code and questions in class. But make sure you make notes of the three presentations you attended and get ready for Week 13 QR Code submission and answer all the questions involved.

Make sure to attend both weeks to secure full marks of 5% in total. If you do not attend, you cannot achieve the marks.


AI Usage Statement

While this task is a personal reflection, students may use generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT) tools to support their work appropriately. All instances of AI/MT use must be clearly referenced, including the nature and extent of assistance.

Unacknowledged use of generative AI or MT may be considered a breach of the Student Code of Conduct and subject to academic misconduct procedures.

Submission guidelines

Submit via online submission point on the course Blackboard site

Deferral or extension

You may be able to apply for an extension.

If you have extenuating circumstances which prevent you completing this assessment within the timeframe given, please apply for an extension of assessment via my.UQ (not a deferral).

Late submission

A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.

Business In An Asian Region

Mode
Written
Category
Essay/ Critique
Weight
30%
Due date

24/10/2025 2:00 pm

Assessment details available on Blackboard.

Other conditions
Student specific.

See the conditions definitions

Task description

Essay Assessment – Individual Task

This assessment requires you to complete an individual research essay based on a common topic. All students will respond to the same essay prompt, which will explore the key challenges and/or opportunities of doing business in the Asian region from the perspective of an international company currently operating in Asia.

The essay topic statement will be released during the first half of the semester via Blackboard. You will be expected to undertake independent secondary research, critically analyse the topic, and present a clear, well-supported argument using appropriate academic sources.


Formatting and Referencing Requirements

  • Word Limit: Maximum of 2,000 words (excluding references, tables, and figures)
  • Referencing Style: APA 7th or Harvard (in-text referencing required)
  • Sources: Minimum of 10 authoritative references, with at least 5 from peer-reviewed A/A* journal articles
  • Formatting:
  • 12-point Times New Roman
  • Double spaced
  • 1-inch margins
  • Cover page including full name and student ID

This assessment will be submitted individually via Turnitin on Blackboard. The full task description, marking criteria, and topic statement will be available in the Assessment section of the course site.


AI Usage Statement

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT) tools may be used to support the development of this essay. If you choose to use these tools, you must clearly acknowledge and reference their use, including the specific content or functions they assisted with.

Failure to declare AI or MT use may constitute academic misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.

Submission guidelines

Essay file submission is via online submission link of the Blackboard.

Deferral or extension

You may be able to apply for an extension.

Late submission

A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.

Course grading

Full criteria for each grade is available in the Assessment Procedure.

Grade Cut off Percent Description
1 (Low Fail) 0 - 29

Absence of evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes.

2 (Fail) 30 - 46

Minimal evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes.

3 (Marginal Fail) 47 - 49

Demonstrated evidence of developing achievement of course learning outcomes

4 (Pass) 50 - 64

Demonstrated evidence of functional achievement of course learning outcomes.

5 (Credit) 65 - 74

Demonstrated evidence of proficient achievement of course learning outcomes.

6 (Distinction) 75 - 84

Demonstrated evidence of advanced achievement of course learning outcomes.

7 (High Distinction) 85 - 100

Demonstrated evidence of exceptional achievement of course learning outcomes.

Additional course grading information

Grades will be allocated according to University-wide standards of criterion-based assessment.

Supplementary assessment

Supplementary assessment is available for this course.

Learning resources

You'll need the following resources to successfully complete the course. We've indicated below if you need a personal copy of the reading materials or your own item.

Library resources

Library resources are available on the UQ Library website.

Other course materials

If we've listed something under further requirement, you'll need to provide your own.

Required

Item Description Further Requirement
Asian business and management: theory, practice and perspectives Book by Harukiyo Hasegawa; Michael A. Witt 2019 3rd edition
The Oxford Handbook of Asian Business Systems Book by Gordon Redding; Michael A Witt 2013
The Philippines: Inequality–Trapped Capitalism Read Mari Kondo, Chapter 9
Negotiation: Mastering Business in Asia Book by Peter Nixon c2005

Additional learning resources information

 

All materials are available via the UQ library.



Learning activities

The learning activities for this course are outlined below. Learn more about the learning outcomes that apply to this course.

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Learning period Activity type Topic
Week 1
Seminar

1. Course Introduction and Overview

Week 1: Course Introduction & Orientation

Topic: Doing Business in Asia – Course Overview and Foundations

Lecturer: Trevor Gormley

Delivery Mode: Seminar (Face to Face Week 1 to 4) and On-Line (Week 5-13) + Face to Face Workshop


What We’ll Cover This Week

  • Welcome and introduction to IBUS7312
  • Meet your teaching team and understand their expertise
  • Overview of course structure, learning outcomes, and weekly flow
  • Explanation of key assessments and participation expectations
  • Introduction to communication channels and support options
  • Review of the ABCD Journal List and APA 7th Edition or Harvard Referencing
  • Setting the context: Why Asia? What makes it diverse and dynamic?


Your To-Do List This Week

  • Review the full Course Profile (ECP) and download from Blackboard
  • Explore the Assessment Overview section in Blackboard, note the due dates.
  • Undertake a sample simulation and explain how it will operate for students moving forward.
  • Familiarise yourself with the Week 2 preparation reading (Country Analysis – Frameworks & Skills)


Did You Know?

Your course coordinator, Assoc. Prof. Yunxia Zhu, brings:

  • International management and negotiation training (Harvard, Oxford Saïd)
  • Industry consulting across Asia and Fortune 500 firms
  • Award-winning teaching experience in multicultural business communication


Did You Know? – Trevor Gormley

  • Your lecturer for weeks 1-6, Trevor Gormley, is a lawyer (Solicitor and Barrister) with 20+ years’ experience across Ireland, the UK, and Australia, who is also researching Brisbane 2032 Olympic procurement and legacy frameworks.
  • He holds a BA, BCL, LLM, MBA (1st in class), and is pursuing his PhD and has taught extensively across UQBS in negotiation, global strategy, and organisational development.
  • A multilingual educator (English, Spanish, Gaelic and recently Arabic), Trevor blends real-world consulting, intercultural insight, and award-nominated teaching into every seminar.


Did You Know? – Dr Henry Xu

  • Your lecturer for weeks 7-13, Dr Xu has 20+ years’ experience across China, Australia, and UK, who has extensive expertise in global supply chain, global business operation among other areas.


Week 2
Seminar

2. Country Analysis - Assessment Skills

Week 2: Country Analysis & Assessment Skills

Topic: Analysing Asian Business Contexts – Assessment Briefing & Team Foundations

Lecturer: Trevor Gormley

Delivery Mode: Seminar (Face to Face Week 1 to 4) and On-Line (Week 5-13) + Face to Face Workshop


What We’ll Cover This Week

  • Weekly Asian Business News sharing and discussion
  • Overview of the Country Analysis Team Presentation assessment
  • How to apply a structured decision-making approach to current business events
  • Step-by-step guide to presentation planning, research expectations, and team collaboration
  • Q&A on team formation, topic allocation by the teaching team, and group engagement strategies
  • Class activity of negotiation as part of the meaning system


Your To-Do List This Week

  • Your active participation in simulation activity (QR Code Submission required)
  • Information about your country and team group (details posted on Blackboard)
  • Begin initial research on current news/events in your assigned country
  • Review the Assessment Rubric and Team Presentation Guidelines on Blackboard
  • Participate in the Asian Business News discussion (2–3 mins speaking time)


Reminder

Key information for you: Only one team member needs to upload the team’s PowerPoint slides before class each week starting in Week 5, but all members must be present and participate. The Q&A session is assessed and forms part of your overall mark. Country Analysis Assessment Skills to assist with the Assessment items and activities to practice applying relevant skills.

Simulation activities are conducted to practice theories learned.

Week 3
Seminar

3. Strategies/Framework for Doing Business in Asia

Week 3: Strategies & Skills for Entering Asia

Topic: Modelling Business Systems and Strategic Entry into Asian Markets

Lecturer: Trevor Gormley

Delivery Mode: Seminar (Face to Face Week 1 to 4) and On-Line (Week 5-6) + Face to Face Workshop


What We’ll Cover This Week

  • Key frameworks from this week’s readings: East vs West business logics
  • Institutional and legitimacy-based business systems (Whitley, North, Redding, etc.)
  • Country-specific corporate strategies for entering the Asia-Pacific region
  • Review of presentation expectations and “burning issues” from student Q&A
  • Asian business news update and in-class discussion

Negotiation simulation activity with strategic roleplay


 Your To-Do List This Week

  • Review Week 3 readings (e.g., Whitley, North, Redding) on Blackboard
  • Identify and analyse a corporate entry strategy relevant to your country presentation
  • Discuss roles and strategic approach with your team before next session
  • Set up your plan/schedule to record the 3 mandatory presentations of Week 5-12) that must be attended and critiqued, which forms an important element of your final assessment piece. However, you are encouraged to attend all student presentations of your workshop throughout the semester.
  • Participate actively in this week’s simulation – this is practice for future assessed negotiation tasks (QR Code Submission required)


Key Concept Spotlight

“Business Systems”: Institutional structures (both societal and firm-level) that shape how business is done in different countries. These include governance, coordination, competition, legitimacy and meaning mechanisms.

Week 4
Seminar

4. Japan - Country Analysis

Week 4: Japan – Business Systems, Culture & Strategy

TopicUnderstanding the Japanese Business System and Cross-Cultural Negotiation

Lecturer: Trevor Gormley

Delivery Mode: Seminar (Face to Face Week 1 to 4) and On-Line (Week 5-13) + Face to Face Workshop


What We’ll Cover This Week

  • Business news from Japan and its implications for doing business in Japan
  • Japan’s unique business system: Rationale, Identity, and Authority
  • Contemporary challenges: Ageing population, digital competitiveness, and productivity
  • The role of government, industrial policy, and Keiretsu networks in shaping Japan’s business environment
  • Key elements of Japanese negotiation patterns and high-context culture
  • Alfa-Beta simulation: Practising cross-cultural negotiation strategy
  • Team Assessment and Reflection guidance


Your To-Do List This Week

  • Start researching Japan-specific case materials if presenting in Week 5
  • Review this week's readings on business systems and negotiation in high-context cultures
  • Explore the Alfa-Beta simulation debrief to prepare for reflective insights (QR Code Submission required)


Quick Share Activity

Find a current Japanese business news article (e.g. from Japan Times or Asahi Shimbun). Be ready to share 1–2 mins on how this news story might impact doing business in Japan. Use it to build familiarity with your assigned country's institutional logic.

Week 5
Workshop

5. Singapore

Week 5: Singapore – Strategy, Competition & Regional Power

Topic: Business Strategy and Regional Positioning in Singapore

Lecturer: Trevor Gormley

Delivery Mode: Seminar (Face to Face Week 1 to 4) and On-Line (Week 5-13) + (Face to Face Workshop)

 

What We’ll Cover This Week

  • Current business news from Singapore and implications for multinational and international companies
  • Overview of Singapore’s economic competitiveness, digital leadership, and policy stability
  • Introduction to the Competition vs Collaboration Simulation activity (Prisoner’s Dilemma)
  • Analysis of Singapore’s business system, policy environment, and global positioning
  • In-class PEST analysis and regional HQ activity
  • Reflection and planning for team presentations

 

Your To-Do List This Week

  • Upload your team’s presentation slides before class (for teams presenting in Week 5)
  • Submit your individual reflection via Blackboard by 5pm Saturday of your presentation week
  • Conducting the online simulation (collaborative vs competitive) with QR code submission and link to broader strategic implications
  • If you are attending the presentation as one of the three mandatory presentations, then ensure that you complete the feedback notes and complete your entry for your record.
  • Prepare for your presentation or Q&A in peer observations — 10% of the mark!


Key Learning Focus

Singapore’s unique edge lies in its blend of “universalist” business logic and communitarian values, supported by advanced infrastructure, talent, and stable governance.

Singapore’s ability to balance global integration with national interest makes it a strategic HQ for multinationals and a regional powerhouse in logistics, finance, and technology.

Week 6
Workshop

6. Malaysia

Week 6: Malaysia – Strategy, Governance & Trust in Business

Topic: Balancing Vision, Risk, and Regulation in Malaysia's Evolving Business Landscape

Lecturer: Trevor Gormley

Delivery Mode: Seminar (Face to Face Week 1 to 4) and On-Line (Week 5-13) + Face to Face Workshop


What We’ll Explore

  • Malaysia's Vision 2020 and evolving development plans to 2028
  • Sectoral strengths: oil & gas, palm oil, health, tourism, business services
  • Judicial, financial, and regulatory reforms – how they shape business trust and foreign direct investment (FDI)
  • Trust-based negotiation culture in Malaysia – pace, protocol, and post-contract bargaining
  • In-class online Simulation to practice theory in practice
  • Cause and Effect diagramming for national issues (via Padlet)


Your To-Do List This Week

  • Scan the QR Code to access the simulation and submit your reflection
  • Select one major national challenge and use the Cause & Effect model to analyse root causes
  • Create your Cause and Effect diagram and paste it into the Padlet board
  • Prepare your country news item and link it back to class insights in your journal or reflective notes
  • Prepare for your presentation or Q&A in peer observations — 10% of the mark!


Key Learning Focus

Malaysia presents a complex yet high-potential business landscape. Strong infrastructure, sector diversity, and regulatory evolution offer global firms opportunities — but success requires cultural respect, trust-building, and patience in negotiations.

Week 7
Workshop

7. China

Week 7: China

Topic:Business Strategy and Regional Positioning in China

Lecturer: Henry Xu

Delivery Mode: Lecture On-Line (Week 5-13) + Face to Face Workshop

 

What We’ll Cover This Week

  • Current business news from China and implications for multinational and international firms
  • Overview of China's economic competitiveness, digital leadership, and policy stability
  • Analysis of China's business system, policy environment, and global positioning
  • In-class case analysis Google in China
  • Reflection and planning for team presentations


To-Do This Week

  • Upload your team’s presentation slides before class (for teams presenting in Week 5)
  • Submit your individual reflection via Blackboard by 5pm Saturday of your presentation week
  • Reflect on the Google case and link to broader strategic implications
  • If you are attending the presentation as one of the three mandatory presentations, then ensure that you complete the feedback form and complete your journal entry.
  • Prepare for your presentation or Q&A in peer observations — 10% of the mark!


Key Learning Focus

China's strategic positioning in the global economy and implications for doing business in China for multinational companies.

Week 8
Workshop

8. Vietnam

Week 8: Vietnam – Trust, Transformation, and Trade Wars

Topic: Vietnam’s Rise in Global Value Chains and its Cultural Complexity in Business Dealings

Lecturer: Henry Xu

Delivery Mode: Lecture On-Line (Week 5-13) + Face to Face Workshop

 

What We’ll Explore

  • Vietnam’s transformation into a preferred FDI destination amid US-China trade tensions
  • State influence, Confucian values, and hierarchical decision-making in Vietnamese business culture
  • The importance of relationships, respect, and “face” in negotiations
  • Multinational company strategies: Nestlé and Unilever case studies on adaptation in local markets
  • Vietnam’s Ease of Doing Business – post-pandemic economic climate and institutional landscape


Your To-Do List

  • Revise the Vietnam readings and case slides (Unilever, Nestlé)
  • Work on your Padlet entry: one cultural or negotiation value in Vietnam with example
  • Prepare Vietnam country presentation and group review (if applicable for your group)
  • Prepare a reflection entry: How did Vietnam challenge or reinforce your views of doing business in Asia?
  • Prepare for your presentation or Q&A in peer observations — 10% of the mark!


Key Insight

Doing business in Vietnam requires patience, relationship-building, and cultural fluency. Beneath its rapid economic rise lies a deeply rooted social fabric shaped by Confucian values, government oversight, and community-based trust systems.

Week 9
Workshop

9. South Korea

Week 9: South Korea

Topic:Business Strategy and Regional Positioning in South Korea

Lecturer: Henry Xu

Delivery Mode: On-Line lecture (Week 5-13) + Face to Face Workshop

 

What We’ll Cover This Week

  • Current business news from Korea and implications for multinationals
  • Overview of south Korea economic competitiveness, digital leadership, and policy stability
  • Analysis of south Korea's business system, policy environment, and global positioning
  • In-class case analysis and multiple-choice questions
  • Reflection and planning for team presentations and observations


To-Do This Week

  • Upload your team’s presentation slides before class (for teams presenting in Week 9)
  • Submit your individual reflection via Blackboard by 5pm Saturday of your presentation week
  • If you are attending the presentation as one of the three mandatory presentations, then ensure that you complete the feedback bote and complete your entry.
  • Prepare for Q&A in peer presentations — 10% of the mark!


Key Learning Focus

South Korea's strategic positioning in the global economy and implications for doing business in South Korea for multinational companies. Cases are analysed and discussed as part of the class Cases are analysed and discussed. Multiple choice questions are also applied in class in relation to country analysis.

Readings see Blackboard.

Mid Sem break
No student involvement (Breaks, information)

Mid Sem break

No Seminar

Week 10
Workshop

10. The Philippines (King's Birthday Public Holiday)

King's Birthday - Monday 6 October 2025 - Check Blackboard for announcements about affected classes.

Week 10 - The Philippines – Oligarchies, Outsourcing & Opportunity

Topic: Navigating Power, People, and Partnerships in the Philippines

Lecturer: Henry Xu

Delivery Mode is recorded lecture since Monday is a public holiday + Face to Face Workshop


What We’ll Explore

  • The legacy of colonialism, elite control, and its effect on governance and business policy
  • The rise of BPO and services exports – and the role of the Filipino diaspora and remittances
  • Core sectors: agribusiness, ICT, consumer goods, and logistics
  • The complex meaning systems of authority, patronage, religion, and hiya (shame/modesty)
  • Case study: Nestlé in the Philippines – localising strategy, community engagement, and regulation
  • Comparative task: How does the Philippines compare to Vietnam, India, or Singapore in business environment?


Your To-Do List

  • Review Nestlé Philippines materials in Blackboard
  • Finalise your contribution to group presentations and peer reviews for those presenting or reviewing groups
  • Check your Week 11 group schedule and prepare accordingly


Key Insight

Doing business in the Philippines requires more than market analysis – it calls for cultural fluency, ethical navigation, and the ability to build trust and social capital in environments shaped by history, hierarchy, and hope.

Week 11
Workshop

11. India

Week 11  India – Complexity, Contradictions & Comparative Advantage

Topic:Business, Culture and Negotiation Dynamics in India

Lecturer: Henry Xu

Delivery Mode: Lecture On-Line (Week 5-13) + Face to Face Workshop


What We’ll Explore

  • India’s post-pandemic economic recovery: growth, barriers, and demographic dividends
  • Institutional frameworks and decision-making mechanisms unique to India
  • High power distance, family-based business systems, and gender dynamics
  • Culture and meaning systems: identity, rationale, authority in Indian business culture
  • Business case studies: IKEA, MNC mining project, and an in-class negotiation simulation
  • Deep dive into informal institutions, social capital, and doing business amid regulatory challenges


Your To-Do List

  • Review Hofstede & Lewis cultural frameworks on India
  • Read the case study handout on the Indian JV mining project (provided in Blackboard)
  • Prepare a reflection entry: how Indian cultural traits influenced business outcomes
  • Begin drafting your research essay (due soon!) and incorporate India as one of your countries if selected


Key Insight

In India, business success depends not just on innovation or scale, but on your ability to navigate bureaucratic layers, tap into social networks, and respect the meaning-making practices of a pluralistic and hierarchical society.

Week 12
Workshop

12. Indonesia

Week 12: Indonesia

TopicBusiness Strategy and Regional Positioning in Indonesia

Lecturer: Henry Xu

Delivery Mode: On-Line lecture (Week 5-13) + Face to Face Workshop


What We’ll Cover This Week (your QR Code Submission Due in class)

  • Current business news from Indonesia and implications for multinationals
  • Analysis of Indonesia's business system, policy environment, and global positioning
  • In-class case analysis and multiple-choice questions
  • QR submission of case questions: Negotiating for Success in Asia: Adapting to a Multipolar World
  • It is a part of the reflective assessment (2.5%)
  • Reflection and planning for team presentations


To-Do This Week

  • Make sure you submit your QR code questions in this online lecture for Negotiating for Success in Asia: Adapting to a Multipolar World (2.5%)
  • Upload your team’s presentation slides before class (for teams presenting in Week 12)
  • Submit your individual reflective note via Blackboard by 5pm Saturday of your presentation week
  • If you are attending the presentation as one of the three mandatory presentations, then ensure that you complete the feedback note and complete your observation entry.
  • Prepare for Q&A in peer presentations — 10% of the mark!


Key Learning Focus


Indonesia's strategic positioning in the global economy and implications for doing business in Indonesia for multinational companies.

One specific virtual negotiation case between an American and Indonesian company is performed, analysed and discussed as part of the class activity for the QR submission.

Readings see Blackboard.

Week 13
Workshop

13. Course Review and Practice

Week 13: Course Review and Practice

TopicBusiness Strategy and Regional Positioning in Thailand and Course Review

Lecturer: Henry Xu

Delivery Mode: On-Line lecture (Week 5-13) + Face to Face Workshop


What We’ll Cover This Week - QR Submission as part of the Reflective Assessment

  • Current business news from Thailand and implications for multinationals
  • In-class case analysis and multiple-choice questions
  • QR submission of your three-presentation notes QR submission as part of the reflective assessment (2.5%)
  • Reflection and discussion of your submission about team presentations


To-Do This Week

  • Make sure you submit your QR code questions for your three-presentation notes QR submission in this online lecture (2.5%)
  • Upload your team’s presentation slides before class (for teams presenting in Week 13)
  • Submit your individual reflection via Blackboard by 5pm Saturday of your presentation week
  • Prepare for Q&A in peer presentations — 10% of the mark!


Key Learning Focus


Multiple choice questions are discussed for doing business in Thailand.

Reflective learning on the three presentations you attended about what impressed you most and your takeaway from these presentations.

Readings see Blackboard.

Additional learning activity information

Sustainable Development Goals

This course integrates the following Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through lectures and assessment.

Goal 4: Quality education

Goal 5: Gender equality and women’s empowerment

Goal 8: Decent work and economic growth

Goal 9: Industries, innovation and infrastructure

Goal 10: Reduced inequalities

Goal 16: Peace, justice and strong institutions

Policies and procedures

University policies and procedures apply to all aspects of student life. As a UQ student, you must comply with University-wide and program-specific requirements, including the:

Learn more about UQ policies on my.UQ and the Policy and Procedure Library.