Heterogeneity among expatriates: an ethnographic study of expatriate self-categorization within the Chinese community in Tanzania

This chapter investigates the self-categorisation of Chinese expatriates in Africa and its impact on their behaviour and expatriation experience, addressing a gap in the literature that has predominantly focused on host country nationals' (HCNs) perspectives. Using an ethnographic approach, the study combines seven months of participant observation and 37 in-depth interviews, revealing significant distinctions among expatriates based on their firm's ownership, region of origin, and age. Expatriates from State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) tend to be more educated with strong cross-cultural skills, while those from private Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are more entrepreneurial and hands-on. Regional and generational differences also shape the expatriate community, with younger expatriates exhibiting more individualistic traits. The research highlights the need for Chinese Multinational Enterprises (MNEs) and policymakers to develop tailored management strategies that address these internal hierarchies and social categorisations to improve expatriate adjustment and foster a sense of belonging.