Governing digital platforms in middle income countries

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This seminar addresses the implications of digital platforms for middle-income countries seeking to build advanced productive capabilities. First, we distinguish the challenges relating to technological change and industrial development typically faced by these countries. Second, we consider the value creation opportunities offered by different types of digital platforms. Third, we advance a policy framework for middle-income countries to engage with these challenges and opportunities effectively. In achieving these goals, the importance of understanding where and how digital platforms are value-creating and where they are value extracting has been widely stressed. This requires taking account of differences in value creation and extraction dynamics across different types of digital platforms and the challenges faced by countries seeking to escape from what can be termed a ‘middle-income technology trap’. The issues are explored with specific reference to South Africa. 

Simon Roberts will discuss his upcoming working paper, digital platforms in middle-income countries. This talk will be chaired by IIPP’s Kate Roll with a discussion from Rainer Kattel, IIPP Deputy Director. Followed by Q&A from the audience.

• Discussant: Rainer Kattel
• Chair: Kate Roll

Background material linked to this seminar

Andreoni, A. & Roberts, S. (2020). Governing data and digital platforms in middle income countries: regulations, competition and industrial policies, with sectoral case studies from South Africa. Digital Pathways at Oxford Paper Series; no. 5. Oxford, United Kingdom

Read more about the IIPP Seminar Series 2020-21