Transnational & Multinational Corporations in the Global Economy

Globalisation and the Impacts of TNCs & MNCs for A Level & IB Geography

By: Peter Lowe

Narrated by: Virtual Voice

This updated book (5th edition published in November 2025) examines the factors behind the growth of transnational corporations (TNCs) and multinational corporations (MNCs), and how they have become a major force in the increasing interdependence of national economies through their role in international trade, investment and capital. TNCs & MNCs have undoubtedly become key players in the process of globalisation, and vital to the economic development of emerging economies during recent decades. Yet, the geography of their ownership is also changing. The domination of the USA and Europe, as origins of the world’s largest companies is being challenged by the emergence of powerful corporations from the newly industrialised countries of Asia, particularly South Korea, India and China.

The activities of TNCs & MNCs inevitably lead to significant economic, social and environmental consequences for their host countries, as well as on their own country of origin. Both positive and negative impacts are assessed, while case studies of Apple, BP and Dyson provide additional detailed examination of the characteristics, spatial organisation, growth and impacts of three global corporations. Although they differ in their history and geographical origins, product lines and scale of operations, they share a number of common features with each other, particularly in how their growth has facilitated and exploited the opportunities arising from the process of globalisation.

New or updated content in this edition:
Latest socio-economic and environmental data on TNCs/MNCs for the period 2020-2025
Fully revised case studies of Apple, BP and Dyson with updated data covering the period 2020-2025
Additional photos, maps and graphs

Numerous discussion questions and multiple-choice review questions are included, along with graphs and photos, to create a more interactive and educational experience for the reader.

It will be of relevance to A Level and IB Geography teachers and students, as well as anyone with an interest in the nature and impacts of transnational & multinational corporations, and their role in the global economy.