Examining differences in competitive intelligence practice: China, Japan, and the West.

Abstract

This article identifies the state of competitive intelligence (CI) in Asia, specifically, two of its most prominent economic powers, China and Japan. Comparisons with Western, mainly U.S. practice are made, particularly where data and management research from those countries supports this approach. In terms of current practice, CI in Japan is more developed than in China, although China continues to devote increasing attention and resources to the area. Decision makers in multinational companies, competing in China or Japan, or with firms that originate there, should be aware of the competitive implications emanating from their utilization of CI.