Discussion Paper
No. 2011-52 | December 06, 2011
Yuezhou Cai
Factors Affecting the Efficiency of the BRICSs' National Innovation Systems: A Comparative Study based on DEA and Panel Data Analysis

Abstract

Efficiency scores for the national innovation systems (NISs) in 22 countries including the BRICS and the G7 are calculated using data envelopment analysis (DEA). Factors that may affect the efficiency of the NIS are summarized based on the NIS approach and the new growth theory. Empirical evidence is provided using panel data analysis and principal component analysis. The results of the efficiency calculations and the empirical tests show the following. (1) The BRICS differ greatly in the efficiency of their NISs, with China, India, and Russia ranking fairly high, and Brazil and South Africa ranking low. (2) In accordance with the NIS approach and the new growth theory, there are many factors that affect the NISs including ICT infrastructure, enterprise R&D, market environment, governance, education systems, economic scale, natural endowments, and external dependence. (3) Enterprise innovation is of particular importance for the NISs. To improve the efficiency of innovation systems, efforts should be made to improve the market conditions, governance, and financial structures, and create a sound environment for R&D. (4) ICT infrastructure, economic scale, and openness affect the diffusion of knowledge and technology, and in turn affect NIS efficiency. (5) The BRICS have low governance levels and a high dependency on natural resources, both of which are determined by their stage of development and extensive growth patterns. To avoid the so-called middle-income trap, the BRICS should transform their factor-driven growth patterns into innovation-driven growth patterns. China still needs to improve its ICT infrastructure, its governance systems, and its education system. During its 12th five-year plan, more effort should be devoted to these fields and to improving external conditions for R&D.

JEL Classification:

O30, O57, P52

Cite As

Yuezhou Cai (2011). Factors Affecting the Efficiency of the BRICSs' National Innovation Systems: A Comparative Study based on DEA and Panel Data Analysis. Economics Discussion Papers, No 2011-52, Kiel Institute for the World Economy. http://www.economics-ejournal.org/economics/discussionpapers/2011-52


Comments and Questions



Anonymous - Referee Report 1
December 19, 2011 - 10:27
See attached file

Yuezhou Cai - Revised version
April 17, 2012 - 03:16
So many thanks for all the comments. I do gains a lot from your comments. Revision has been made according to the comments.

Anonymous - Referee Report 2
January 06, 2012 - 11:15
See attached file

Yuezhou Cai - Revised version
April 17, 2012 - 03:22
I am very appriciated for all your comments. Your comments help me understand the DEA and two-stage DEA in depth. I have adapted the procedure of Simar and Wilson, which is recommanded by you. see the attached file. Thanks again.