Innovation–Development Detours for Latecomers: Managing Global–Local Interfaces in the De-globalization Era offers a timely reassessment of innovation and development in a world marked by geopolitical tensions, technological competition and shifting patterns of globalisation. Drawing on decades of research in innovation studies and development economics, Keun Lee examines how latecomer economies can sustain technological progress and economic transformation as global production networks become increasingly fragmented.
The book argues that the changing international landscape requires countries to rethink traditional development strategies based on export-led growth and deep integration into global value chains. While globalisation has enabled many economies to accelerate industrialisation and technological learning, emerging trends such as de-globalization, supply chain restructuring and strategic competition are creating new challenges. In response, Lee proposes that countries develop more resilient innovation systems by strengthening domestic capabilities while maintaining productive connections with global knowledge networks.
A central contribution of the book is the concept of innovation–development detours. Rather than following a single path of technological catch-up, latecomer economies may need to pursue alternative trajectories that reflect their institutional conditions, industrial structures and technological opportunities. Successful development depends on the ability to adapt strategies over time, combining global engagement with locally driven capability building and policy innovation.
Throughout the volume, Lee emphasises the importance of managing the interfaces between global and local actors. Governments, firms, universities and research institutions all play essential roles in building innovation systems that can absorb external knowledge while generating indigenous technological capabilities. The book highlights how industrial policy, science and technology policy, education and institutional learning can help countries reduce technological dependence and strengthen long-term competitiveness.
The analysis is informed by comparative experiences from East Asia and other emerging economies, illustrating how different countries have responded to changing global conditions. These examples demonstrate that innovation-led development is not determined solely by market forces but also by strategic policy choices, institutional coordination and sustained investments in knowledge, skills and productive capabilities.
The book also explores broader questions related to resilience, sustainability and technological sovereignty. As countries confront climate change, digital transformation and geopolitical uncertainty, innovation systems must become more adaptive, inclusive and capable of supporting structural transformation. Lee argues that development strategies should prioritise long-term capability building while remaining sufficiently flexible to respond to future disruptions and emerging technological opportunities.
Combining theoretical innovation with practical policy insights, Innovation–Development Detours for Latecomers makes a significant contribution to contemporary debates on innovation systems and economic development. It offers researchers, policymakers and development practitioners a valuable framework for understanding how latecomer economies can navigate an increasingly complex global environment while pursuing inclusive, resilient and sustainable development.
