The science and technology race and productive re-structuring: geoeconomic and geopolitical impacts

ABSTRACT

The accelerated growth of the Chinese economy and of other Asian countries has broadened the participation of the Asian bloc in international production and trade. This process has changed economic geography and global order, thereby creating a strong challenge to Western capitalism, which is undergoing a structural crisis, seeking to recover its relative position. The consequence of the competition between the two blocs has been a rapid science and technology race. On the other hand, Brazil has experienced a speedy process of deindustrialization and a reduction of investment in R&D, which may also hinder the ongoing productive deconcentration. The difficult industrial recovery and the preservation of the regional deconcentration process requires the structuring of a new, affirmative industrial policy with a long-term view, and an emphasis on science and technology. It should also guarantee the consolidation of ongoing projects and afford special attention to taking advantage of regional potentials with a view to broadening the trends of territorial decentralization.

Keywords:
Chinese growth; Asian expansion; global crisis; technology race; Brazilian de-industrialization; industrial policy; science and technology policy; regional development