Technological Infrastructure Policy

This text provides a systematic treatment of technological infrastructure (TI) and Technological Infrastructure Policy (TIP) which are emerging fields of interest both for academic economists and for policy makers in both advanced and developing economies. The specific topics covered include: the role of TI in economic growth and development; the nature and definition of TI; TI-components; the relationships between TI and markets; and salient features of TIP. The study reflects the distinction made between basic and advanced TI. Basic TI involves the collective absorption of foreign technology for subsequent diffusion to domestic firms. Several chapters deal with this process with an emphasis on the supply of advisory services to small and medium enterprises. Advanced TI involves pre-competitive, co-operation research and development in cutting edge technologies undertaken by consortia of firms. Several examples of advanced TIP are given.