Technology transfer and industrial collaboration under CPEC: Implications for Pakistan economic modernization

Abstract

The progress of Pakistan's industrial capacity, technological innovation, productivity and competitiveness will be explored in the context of the meaning of technology transfer under CPEC. The study employed a qualitative research design, and the primary source of data was from secondary sources, which were retrieved from official government publications, international publications, peer reviewed articles, and policy documents. The results indicate that CPEC offers Pakistan a unique chance to learn and gain access to modern manufacturing technologies, managerial skills, industrial skills and practices of innovation with the Chinese firms. But, some of the benefits have only been partially realized due to the lack of institutional capacities, research and development (R&D), skilled human resources and university-industry linkages. According to the study, good governance, investment in technical education, development of innovation ecosystem and policies to encourage local participation in industrial value chains will be essential to maximize technology transfer under the CPEC.