摘要：This paper investigates the actual mechanism of ¡®inter-firm¡¯ technology transfer in the Thai
automobile industry and the evolution of this mechanism brought about by the general development of the
industry and the structural changes that this industry is currently undergoing. The pattern of ¡®inter-firm¡¯
technology transfer is illustrated on the basis of two prominent case studies. It is found that the areas of
technological support mostly involve ¡®process engineering¡¯ capability, which local suppliers lack. The
paper next discusses the current changes in the production strategies of assemblers and the implication of
these changes on the evolution of ¡®inter-firm¡¯ technology transfer. The assemblers¡¯ global purchasing and
production policies impose difficulties upon local parts makers. Survey results indicate that local firms¡¯
lack in ¡®process engineering¡¯ and ¡®design¡¯ capabilities is mainly due to the geographic distance between
the product development and manufacturing activities. The paper finds that prior to 2000 the content of
inter-firm technology transfer evolved from simple (operational) technology to a higher (process
engineering) technology. Since 2000, as a result of the strategic changes in the industry, inter-firm
technology transfer has come to include ¡®product engineering¡¯ capability. However, only a limited
number of local suppliers, who have long-term relationship with assemblers and who have some ability
and interest in participating in the ¡®product development¡¯ stage in Japan will benefit from this more
advanced type of technology transfer. The suppliers¡¯ own efforts in human-resource development seem to
be the most crucial factor in maintaining and continuously developing their technological capability.
Loading...
