Management accounting in less developed countries: what is known and needs knowing

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to evaluate management accounting research in developing countries and formulate suggestions for its progression.Design methodology approach - This is a desk based study of existing literature analysed through a framework of management control transformation in developing countries derived from the authors' research.Findings - Research is growing, especially on accounting in state-owned and privatised enterprises but more is needed on small and micro enterprises, agriculture, non-governmental organisations, and transnational institutions.Originality value - This is the first review of this area and thus should help intending and existing scholars.