Action Research in Solution Adaptability, Product Localization and Project Implementation to Internationalization Performance: Conceptual Paper

Abstract

Chinese fintech companies are expanding beyond domestic borders to pursue global growth, especially as local markets become saturated and regulatory oversight intensifies. However, entering foreign markets is not easy. It involves navigating complex regulatory environments, adapting to local infrastructure, and meeting diverse consumer expectations. This conceptual paper explores how fintech firms from China can improve their internationalization performance by focusing on three key areas: solution adaptability, product localization, and project implementation. The study uses an action research approach to build a conceptual model linking these three factors to successful global expansion. The paper begins by reviewing foundational international business theories, including the Uppsala Internationalization Model and the Product Life Cycle Theory. These models help explain why firms first expand to familiar markets and gradually move into more distant ones. The literature review then highlights how solution adaptability allows fintech firms to respond to technical and regulatory differences in foreign markets. It also shows that product localization increases consumer trust and platform usability, while project implementation ensures smooth operations and market entry. Based on this review, a conceptual model is proposed along with three propositions. Each proposition explains how one of the three core areas positively affects internationalization performance. These insights offer practical guidance for fintech firms and lay the foundation for future research. In summary, this paper provides a useful framework for understanding how Chinese fintech companies can manage challenges and improve their performance when entering international markets.