Technological Policy and the Restructuring of Industry: Central Themes

A discussion of current issues of industrial restructuring from the standpoint of developing countries. At present many types of industries are moving from the advanced capitalist countries to semi-industrial countries. Current trends include a transition away from economies of scale to economies of scope, where investment in learning is a prerequisite to competitiveness on the world market, not an obstacle to it, & where gains in social welfare are fueled by innovation. A parallel is drawn between protectionist measures for nascent industries in developing countries & for decadent industries in advanced nations. The need for structural flexibility in all countries is based not just on changes within specific industries but largely on rising competitiveness in all sectors. 24 References. Modified HA