Which of the following can discourage participation in global business?

Sociocultural forces can significantly influence participation in global business because they encompass a wide range of factors such as values, beliefs, customs, and norms that vary between different cultures. When a company seeks to enter a new international market, it must navigate these sociocultural dynamics. Resistance can arise if there is a misalignment between the organization’s practices and the local culture. For instance, cultural misunderstandings or social taboos may affect how business is conducted, potentially leading to poor market reception and hindering successful participation. Companies might face challenges such as needing to adapt their marketing strategies, product offerings, or even business models to align with the local sociocultural landscape.

In contrast, increased competition could prompt companies to enhance their strategies and innovate, rather than discourage participation. Government subsidies might actually encourage businesses to enter global markets by providing them with financial support. Technological advancements typically create more opportunities for entering international markets, as they can facilitate communication and logistics, making global business more feasible. Hence, while sociocultural forces can present challenges that discourage global engagement, the other factors listed tend to support it.