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Seven Unproductive Habits of Thailand’s Ineffective Technology and Innovation Policies : Lessons for other Developing Countries

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  • Patarapong Intarakumnerd

    (National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS). Japan)

Abstract

Though the Thai economy has recorded impressive growth rates over the past 50 years, the country is now in the ‘middle-income trap’ unable to achieve the status of high-income economy and catch-up with the forerunner countries of Asia in technologically sophisticated industries. At the same time, it is losing out to countries such as Indonesia and Vietnam in labour-intensive and resource-based industries. Passive and slow technological learning behaviour of firms in Thailand are the underlying problems. Apart from deficiencies in technological efforts and the strategic intent to upgrade, several firms have continued to perpetuate ineffective technology and innovation policies. Seven unhealthy habits are outlined here to explain Thailand’s ineffective policies. The analysis offers lessons for other developing countries aiming to avoid getting caught in the middle-income trap.

Suggested Citation

  • Patarapong Intarakumnerd, 2015. "Seven Unproductive Habits of Thailand’s Ineffective Technology and Innovation Policies : Lessons for other Developing Countries," Institutions and Economies (formerly known as International Journal of Institutions and Economies), Faculty of Economics and Administration, University of Malaya, vol. 7(1), pages 80-95, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:umk:journl:v:7:y:2015:i:1:p:80-95
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Innovation; Middle-Income Trap; Policy Learning; Technology; Thailand;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • O32 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Management of Technological Innovation and R&D
    • O38 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Government Policy

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