R&D relocation activities outside the company and its consequences: a systematic review

This article investigates the consequences of R&D relocation for companies and countries of origin and destination. RDR is one of the types of outsourcing based on which companies try to use it in the direction of Completing knowledge and technological capabilities and reducing R&D costs will benefit from the studies that have shown the development of this type of outsourcing in the last two decades. A systematic review of empirical studies can lead to a deeper understanding of this field regarding the consequences for companies and countries on both sides of R&D relocation. The present study has benefited from the systematic review of empirical studies from 2000 to 2021 to understand the consequences of RDR. The research results show that R&D relocation can lead to improved performance, innovation, productivity, increased intensity of R&D, knowledge, and economic effects for the parties. Also, the characteristics of companies and countries on both sides and the type of knowledge in RDR can influence the relationship between R&D relocation and its consequences. Identifying these factors will motivate managers and policymakers to improve the achievement of results and provide the basis for the foundation of the R&D relocation regions in the country by developing appropriate policies.