International Technology Transfer: Issues and Policy Options

摘要

This paper surveys the issues raised by technology transfer to developing countries. Technology is a vital part of the development process, a necessary input into all activity. Because of the historical domination of research and development by developed countries, a very large part of the technology used is transferred from developed countries. The transfer raises four major issues: those of the costs of the transfer, the appropriateness of products and techniques which are transferred, the effects of the transfer on learning and technological development in LDCs, and the effects on independence. The paper considers the consequence of the transfer and the range of policies that might be adopted, nationally and internationally, in relation to each of these issues. (Copyright (c) 1979 The World Bank.)