The experience of technological collaborations by MERCOSUR companies

This paper examines some of the experiences in information and knowledge sharing involving MERCOSUR firms. It finds that while technological collaborations by, MERCOSUR firms are relatively few, located in low-tech sectors and faking place in an environment of little innovation, they are motivated by the need to 'fuse' their own knowledge with that of partner or to improve available information. Modes of governance vary accordingly, with equity or contractual forms being used for new developments and informal agreements for improvements. Governments and business associations can be important facilitators of technological collaborations. The analysis of technological collaborations suggested that the better prepared a corporation enter-ed an agreement the mole successful it was likely to be. It also pointed out that where interactions were intense, well intended and transparent, included personnel exchanges, were properly assessed and involved receptive participants, learning progressed smoothly and partners were satisfied. Benefits of the collaborations included new patentable and non-patentable products, new factories, as well as building trust between partners. Premature termination of some collaborations was the result of financial limitations unrelated to the success of the collaboration.