The comparison between a 'catch up' and 'leading economy' isn't very apt. The best thing a 'catch up' economy can do is copy other, better companies from abroa

The comparison between a 'catch up' and 'leading economy' isn't very apt. The best thing a 'catch up' economy can do is copy other, better companies from abroad. But once you have to 'lead' in a sector, it's a lot harder if you can't recoup your investments. China is leading in 5G and 6G patents for this reason.