Trade Liberalization in Sri Lanka: Exports, Technology, and Industrial Policy

The East Asian experience suggests that technological development is fundamental to export success in outward-oriented economies. This study analyses export performance in Sri Lanka at a national and firm level, focusing on the acquisition of industrial technological capabilities during a period of trade liberalization. It compares Sri Lanka's record with Korea, Taiwan and Thailand. Analysis of the export and technological record of enterprises of varying performance highlights the policies which enhance competitiveness in developing and transition economies.