Advancing research on sustainability in international business: a systematic literature review

The concept of sustainability, increasingly prominent in the global economic debate, needs a balance between economic, environmental, and social aspects, crucial for both business success and social prosperity. International companies, aware of this interconnectedness, try to maximize economic performance while concurrently pursuing sustainability in the medium- long term. Despite the competitive advantages associated with sustainability, companies face complex challenges in the international arena, such as cultural, legal, regulatory, and social pressures, which have prompted them to integrate these issues into their business strategies. Academic literature has provided valuable insights into the relationship between sustainability and international business, investigating a multitude of aspects and features of connections between these two elements. Yet, there is still a gap in the full comprehension of this relationship and those issues that on one hand influence the adoption of sustainability practices and on the other hand the consequences and actions that this adoption requires. This literature review aims to offer a comprehensive overview of these elements through a systemic conceptualization, examining the challenges and opportunities that international companies face in pursuing sustainable objectives, thereby contributing to delineating potential opportunities for the future of the global economy.