Assuming Corporate Social Responsibility in China: The “Highway to Harmony”

To get a stable share on the Chinese market is a big challenge for multinational corporations. The situation in China is particular. Not only that there is the usual collective dilemma between the goals of the MNCs and the common welfare of the society, but there are particular roles of the government, unique cultural values guiding different thinking and behaviors, the ever-growing local enterprises, more coming-in foreign companies, the perseverant claims of NGOs. All these compose a more difficult environment for MNCs to balance this dilemma. However, when considering in a long-term viewpoint, this dilemma may be turned into a win-win solution. That is, a CSR strategy that is adapted to the Chinese context may not only enhance the acceptance of the MNCs in China, but even further and support their economic growth in the long run. A road map for the implementation of an appropriate and successful CSR strategy begins with a long-term mindset of strategy designing and an inclusion of culture differences. Then the deliberation of possible constraints and incentives from the context is essential. And finally, establishing harmonious relationships, such as partnerships with some factors in the context is necessary to achieve the common goal. In this way, the Chinese society and the MNCs, as well as the global society profit