The Development Paths of Science and Technology in Argentina and China
Abstract
How have China and Argentina progressed in science and technology? Which policies have significantly contributed to their development? What lessons can be drawn from the Asian country to guide the development of science and technology in Argentina? This document attempts to answer these questions by analyzing the trajectories of science and technology in Argentina and China from the 1940s to the present. It analyses institutional aspects, the main policies and planning experiences that have determined the path of scientific and technological development in both countries. At the same time, it explores the main lessons learned from the Chinese case and the main challenges for the formulation of science and technology policies in Argentina.
Executive Summary
● China stands out for the strategic emphasis placed on science and technology (S&T) in recent decades, which has been fundamental to boosting its growth and technological development. Despite variations in science and technology policy at different stages of development, the state's role in guiding technological advancement has been the common denominator since the middle of the last century.
● The state planning system in China has remained relevant throughout the different stages of technological development. In this sense, the different five-year plans and technology programmes have been fundamental in the transformations of its national innovation system..
● In Argentina, despite having had a promising start with the early creation of universities and scientific institutions in comparison to the Latin American region, scientific development has been largely disconnected from the demands and requirements of the technological development of the country's productive structure.
● In Argentina, although some recent experiences in medium- and long-term plans for science and technology can be highlighted, most of the cases failed to achieve the proposed objectives, operated in isolation from the rest of the institutional apparatus and were interrupted by changes in government and their different conceptions of the role of S&T for development.
● In recent years, China has undergone a complexisation of its production structure, linked to its science and technology policy strategy. Initially, it was focused on taking advantage of foreign investment opportunities for knowledge transfer and the development of local capabilities. Afterward, investment efforts were directed toward the development of autonomous capabilities in emerging technological sectors with a high demand for knowledge, such as robotics and artificial intelligence.
● In Latin America in general, and particularly in Argentina, the lack of structural transformations in the productive system and technological capacity building have a significant impact on the decline in productivity levels and long-term growth potential.
The report identifies possible challenges for the Argentinean case, which include:
- Positioning S&T as a solid and stable state policy.
- Increase investment in R&D and encourage private investment.
- Promoting collaboration and knowledge transfer between the public and private sectors.
- Reduce regional disparities in S&T through an equitable investment strategy.
- Strengthen the capacities of the State to manage S&T policies, with strategic planning and public-private collaboration.