The diffusion of emerging technologies in a micro-economy : implications for Malta

Abstract

Malta is another small island state in our study and presents an interesting comparison to Jamaica and to a lesser extent Costa Rica. As noted in the country introductions in Chapter 2, the issue of small size can limit the potential for technology creation and result in greater dependence on the importation of technology over investments in building an indigenous research and innovation capacity. However, unlike Jamaica, there is greater potential for technology transfer given higher levels of education and a close proximity to Europe. In addition, we expect that with lower income inequality and better public services, distributional boundaries for emerging technologies could be extended. [excerpt]