Technology transfer and construction in developing countries

Ellis L.C. Osabutey and Terence Jackson

Chapter 8 in Research Companion to the Construction Industry in Developing Countries, 2026, pp 212-226 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: Domestic construction firms in developing countries often struggle with the delivery of large-scale projects due to limited resources and inadequate knowledge of new technologies. Technology transfer is crucial for construction industry development, but there is a lack of policies to enhance this. Limited collaboration between foreign and domestic firms exacerbates dependence on foreign companies. This chapter examines technology transfer, focusing on construction multinationals from emerging markets, such as China, and their cultural and institutional compatibility with what prevails in the host countries. It encourages policymakers to promote South–South technology transfer, as it is deemed more appropriate and sustainable. The chapter also suggests domestic firm-level mechanisms, human resource development and knowledge management practices to enhance technology transfer. Finally, it introduces a model demonstrating how government-, industry- and firm-level initiatives could influence absorptive capacity and identify suitable technologies for effective transfer.

Keywords: Construction industry development; Developing countries; Absorptive capacity; Technology transfer (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
ISBN: 9781035336302
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