Industrial Clusters, Upgrading and Innovation in East Asia

Book excerpt: This lucid and informative book analyzes the problems of clusters in transition through studies of agglomerations at different stages of development in various East Asian countries. The contributors reconsider industrial cluster policy within a more dynamic and long-term framework, and explore how regional transformations can bring new insights to the theory of agglomeration and innovation. By identifying the factors and policies to promote upgrading, the authors establish the theoretical and policy basis for transforming industrial clusters from production-oriented to innovation-oriented agglomerations. They also study the important structural changes in the region, such as FTAs and the role of the WTO, and the consequent effects on clusters. Researchers and students of Asian economics, industrial clusters and innovation will find this incisive book invaluable. It will also prove to be a compelling read for policymakers in developing countries or international development organizations.