Article: From tariffs to technology policies: the role of regionalism in the digital economy Journal: International Journal of Trade and Global Markets (IJTGM) 2025 Vol.21 No.5 pp.534 - 559 Abstract: This paper explores the evolving role of regionalism in fostering technology transfer within global value chains (GVCs). Combining theoretical and empirical perspectives, we analyse WTO-X provisions in regional trade agreements (RTAs) and assess their capacity to promote knowledge diffusion, innovation, and digital transformation. The findings reveal that: i) while RTAs increasingly include provisions on technology transfer, most lack legally binding mechanisms, limiting their effectiveness in enabling technological upgrading, particularly in developing economies; ii) by examining key indicators such as AI preparedness and regional disparities in knowledge production, the study underscores structural inequalities that constrain inclusive development; and iii) there is an underexplored intersection of regionalism and technology transfer in academic research. The paper concludes by advocating for a stronger regionalism framework with enforceable commitments to innovation policies, education, and industrial cooperation, essential for fostering equitable technology diffusion and sustainable economic integration in the digital era. Inderscience Publishers - linking academia, business and industry through research

Title: From tariffs to technology policies: the role of regionalism in the digital economy

Authors: María Gabriela Ramos-Barrera; Claudia Milena Pico-Bonilla; Andrés Aguilera-Castillo

Addresses: Faculty of Economics, Business Administration, and Accounting, Program of Economics, Fundación Universitaria Los Libertadores, Bogotá, 110231, Colombia ' Faculty of Economic Sciences, Program of Economics, Universidad Militar Nueva Granada, Bogotá, 110111, Colombia ' Department of International Business and Logistics, Business School, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Puebla, 72453, Mexico

Abstract: This paper explores the evolving role of regionalism in fostering technology transfer within global value chains (GVCs). Combining theoretical and empirical perspectives, we analyse WTO-X provisions in regional trade agreements (RTAs) and assess their capacity to promote knowledge diffusion, innovation, and digital transformation. The findings reveal that: i) while RTAs increasingly include provisions on technology transfer, most lack legally binding mechanisms, limiting their effectiveness in enabling technological upgrading, particularly in developing economies; ii) by examining key indicators such as AI preparedness and regional disparities in knowledge production, the study underscores structural inequalities that constrain inclusive development; and iii) there is an underexplored intersection of regionalism and technology transfer in academic research. The paper concludes by advocating for a stronger regionalism framework with enforceable commitments to innovation policies, education, and industrial cooperation, essential for fostering equitable technology diffusion and sustainable economic integration in the digital era.

Keywords: regionalism; technology transfer; GVCs; global value chains; trade agreements; digital economy.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTGM.2025.150088

International Journal of Trade and Global Markets, 2025 Vol.21 No.5, pp.534 - 559

Received: 20 Jul 2025
Accepted: 11 Sep 2025
Published online: 28 Nov 2025 *

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Title: From tariffs to technology policies: the role of regionalism in the digital economy

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