ICT-Driven Technological and Industrial Upgrading in Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan: Current Realities and Opportunities

Abstract

This paper examines the recent technological performance of Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan and identifies opportunities for their technological and industrial upgrading in the context of the current global technological trends. The manuscript develops a three-pronged industrial upgrading strategy centered on the application of information and communication technologies, along five core value chains based on the existing mining, energy and agricultural sectors of these economies and discusses various government policies in support of this modernization programme.