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An analysis of the micro- and macro-economic determinants of firm R&D intensity in the South African business sector

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  • Amy Kahn
  • Atoko Kasongo
  • Moses M. Sithole
  • Kgabo Hector Ramoroka

Abstract

Research and experimental development (R&D) is an important driver of economic growth and productivity. Gross expenditure on domestic R&D (GERD) is a country’s total expenditure on R&D performed by all sectors of the economy. South Africa’s GERD as a percentage of its GDP (GERD/GDP) remains below government targets and has stagnated over the past decade, largely due to declining business sector R&D. This paper aims to identify the drivers of firm-level R&D intensity, defined as the firm’s R&D expenditure as a percentage of turnover. It is the first South African study to examine both micro- and macro-economic drivers of firm R&D, with a paucity of literature on this topic for middle-income countries. Using the South African National R&D Survey data, the study utilized the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) model and found that public financial support for firms, smaller firm-size, firm-level collaboration, political stability, foreign direct investment, and public R&D investment are positively associated with firm R&D intensity. The results highlight the importance of public financial support for smaller firms and investments in higher education and research institutions in promoting firm-level R&D, thereby providing useful policy insights for boosting business sector and economy-wide R&D expenditure and reaching national GERD/GDP targets.

Suggested Citation

  • Amy Kahn & Atoko Kasongo & Moses M. Sithole & Kgabo Hector Ramoroka, 2024. "An analysis of the micro- and macro-economic determinants of firm R&D intensity in the South African business sector," African Journal of Science, Technology, Innovation and Development, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 16(3), pages 297-308, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:rajsxx:v:16:y:2024:i:3:p:297-308
    DOI: 10.1080/20421338.2023.2296653
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    References listed on IDEAS

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