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Bridging Innovation Gaps for the SDGs: A Quantile Analysis of Technology Drivers in Intercontinental Emerging Economies

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  • Shuyuan Guan
  • Paul David

Abstract

This study examines the determinants driving technological advancement in eight emerging economies, collectively known as the Intercontinental Eight (IC8), spanning Latin America, Africa, and Asia from 2000 to 2023. Much of the existing research examines human capital, economic growth, or supply chains in isolation. We adopt a more holistic approach by incorporating governance quality to enhance our understanding of the relationship between sustainability and innovation. Our research addresses a significant gap by elucidating the impact of these traits on technology adoption across several phases of national innovation, a differentiation frequently neglected in conventional models. Employing Method of Moments Quantile Regression, we ascertain that human capital and supply chains exert a greater influence on elevated innovation quantiles, indicating a divergent distribution. Fixed effects models corroborate these findings: human capital and digital logistics are significant determinants, but economic development is more dynamic and less robust. The quality of governance serves a dual purpose: it promotes innovation in the early stages while appearing to impose limitations in later, more advanced stages, sometimes due to institutional rigidity or inefficiencies. These findings align with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), notably SDG 4, SDG 8, SDG 9, and SDG 12. The study establishes a foundation for more inclusive, context‐sensitive innovation policies designed for the Global South by providing quantile‐specific insights.

Suggested Citation

  • Shuyuan Guan & Paul David, 2026. "Bridging Innovation Gaps for the SDGs: A Quantile Analysis of Technology Drivers in Intercontinental Emerging Economies," Sustainable Development, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 34(2), pages 1566-1581, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:sustdv:v:34:y:2026:i:2:p:1566-1581
    DOI: 10.1002/sd.70414
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