Chance Quote by Ha-Joon Chang
“It takes time and experience to absorb new technologies, so technologically backward producers need a period of protection from international competition during this period of learning. Such protection is costly, because the country is giving up the chance to import better and cheaper products. However, it is a price that has to be paid if it wants to develop advanced industries.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Economics of Development, Ha‑Joon Chang, 2002
Developing nations need temporary protection for new industries, though it costs them cheaper imports.
In simple terms: Protection helps new industries grow despite higher costs.
Balance protection with long‑term competitiveness.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- government policy
- industrial strategy
- foreign investment
- market entry
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What duration is optimal for protection?
- How to transition to open markets?
Protection can create dependency and inefficiency.