INTERFIRM LINKAGES, ETHNIC NETWORKS, AND TERRITORIAL AGGLOMERATION - CHINESE COMPUTER FIRMS IN LOS-ANGELES

Drawing from flexible production Literature on industrial networks, th is research pays particular attention to the socially embedded nature of firm linkages in a distribution sector. The empirical study of Chin ese-owned computer wholesale firms within Los Angeles County shows tha t the presence of ethnic identity plays a significant role in the inte rnal operation and external transactions of Chinese firms. Ethnic rela tions facilitate interactions within the ethnic group, producing a clo sely knit ethnic network within the industry. The heavy reliance on et hnic networks also has led Chinese firms to a notable geographical sep aration from the remaining firms in the same sector.