Industrial Policy as Innovation Policy: notes on technological gap, policies, resources and innovative activities in Brazil

Abstract

This paper deals with a central dimension of industrial policies in modern, globalized, economies, namely innovation policy. From an evolutionary approach it points out the relationship between technology gaps and competitiveness. Next, our core proposition is claimed, by showing the link among industrial policies, technological capabilities accumulation and international competitiveness. The proposed orientation of industrial policy should, however, go beyond support and (financial and human) resource supply measures, and to inquire the determinants of low innovation efforts by the Brazilian firms.