Research question: • Conceptually: Can we observe and document a similar role for global cities regarding the internationalization of SMEs to emerging markets located in East Asia as one of the three mega-pillars of the global economy? • Empirically: Are European/Swiss SMEs using more and more East Asian global cities as hubs or platforms offering appropriate services to reach regional emerging markets (ASEAN + China) Focus 2014-16: Bangkok, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Singapore (+Tokyo)