A Short History of Technology Transfer and Capture: High Speed Rail in China

Abstract

This is a review of a technology transfer activity in China. It uses the High Speed Rail program as a demonstration of the transfer process and explores the recent history that has projected China’s program from almost zero in 2000 to the largest in the World in a decade. The role of government and private sector technology actors are examined with respect to their alternative strategies and the role of China’s government in leading this technology transfer and adoption, absorption and adaption process. Specific technologies and technological companies are used as examples of the process and its unfolding development.

Keywords: Technology Transfer, High-Speed Rail, Innovation, Assimilation and Transformation