Editors Harvie (director, Centre for Small Business and Regional Research, U. of Wollongong, Australia) and Lee (New South Wales Department of Community Services) offer the last of a
four-volume set of books on the role of small and medium-size enterprises (SMEs) in the growth and development of economies in East Asia. The editors and their 22 co-contributors explore a
variety of issues relating to SMEs in general, including the disadvantages of smaller companies (less purchasing power, lower production capacity) and geographic isolation. The book also
examines specific elements of SMEs in various parts of the world, including China, Australia, Vietnam and Indonesia, such as their development strategies, legal and market issues, and global
challenges. The authors also emphasize networking and clustering initiatives in terms of supporting global competitiveness. This book will interest academics and anyone involved with Asian
studies, business and management, and industrial organization and entrepreneurship. Annotation 穢2008 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
