Current State and Development Models of Technology in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan

This paper examines the current state of technological development of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, and develops technological and industrial modernization options that could propel broad-based and sustained economic growth in these countries. Despite their abundant resource endowments and relatively high levels of human capital, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan are currently lagging behind in their technological development, largely due to the drastic post-Soviet de-industrialization and the subsequent shift to a narrowly specialized, resource-dependent economic model.

To address these structural imbalances, the paper proposes a three-pronged industrial modernization strategy centered on the application of information and communication technologies. The key elements of the strategy include the revival and/or development of technology- and knowledge-intensive industries such as machine-building, new materials and chemical industries on the basis of local raw materials, through a well-balanced mix of industrial, educational and research and development policies.