Each term is distinct and has a specific meaning which defines the scope and degree of interaction with

their operations outside of their home country. International companies are importers and exporters; they have no investment outside of their home country. Multinational companies have investment in other countries, but do not have coordinated product offerings in each country. More focused on adapting their products and service to each individual local market. Global companies have invested and are present in many countries. They market their products through the use of the same coordinated image/brand in all markets. Generally one corporate office that is responsible for global strategy. Emphasis on volume, cost management and efficiency. Transnational companies are much more complex organizations. They have invested in foreign operations, have a central corporate facility but give decision-making, R&D and marketing powers to each individual foreign market.

Andrewss advice is if in doubt about the right term to use, try the generic term international business

What is a Trans-national Corporation?

UNCTAD - Description: A transnational corporation (TNC) is generally regarded as an enterprise comprising entities in more than one country which operate under a system of decision-making that permits coherent policies and a common strategy. The entities are so linked, by ownership or otherwise, that one or more of them may be able to exercise a significant influence over the others and, in particular, to share knowledge, resources and responsibilities with the others. What is the definition of transnational companies Transnational Corporation as define by UN is globally integrated organisation with entities in two or more countries, decision making system permitting coherent policies and common strategy through... With over 53% of the world's largest economies today being Trans-national Corporations (TNCs) their impact and responsibilities are global and it is crucial that they be held accountable for the numerous violations which are being perpetrated on a daily basis in the name of maximising production and profits. In 2006 total sales of the top 200 transnational corporations were bigger than the combined GDP of 187 countries, more than thirty percent of world GDP, while they employ less than a third of the world population. TNCs on the other hand can also, if they so choose, become agents of positive and wide-ranging change.