Relational Capital and Performance of International Joint Ventures in Vietnam

Relational capital (RC), which is defined as mutual trust, respect, understanding, and close friendship between individuals in a business partnership, is one of the foremost important elements of the international joint venture (IJV) relationship. However, only relatively few researchers have hitherto attempted to measure this concept or its antecedents and consequences on joint ventures (JVs). This article examines the links between RC and relational factors, such as inter-partner flexibility, cultural sensitivity, goal clarity, information exchange and conflict management, and how RC contributes to performance of the IJVs in Vietnam. Based on an extensive questionnaire survey, the study found significant relationships between these relational factors and RC and between RC and performance of the IJVs. The findings suggest that investment in RC between partners is critical for the success of the IJV. In this regard, this research highlights the mediating roles of inter-partner flexibility, goal clarity, and conflict management.