This paper studies how export controls imposed on sanctioned countries affect innovation outcomes. Using firm- or industry-level data, the authors examine how restrictions on trade and access to foreign inputs influence research and development investment, patenting, and technology adoption. Preliminary results suggest that export controls have significant deterrent effects on innovation, with heterogeneous responses across sectors and firm sizes.

Citations

Liu, Xueyue, Yu Liu, Alexey Makarin, and Jaya Y. Wen. 2025. “Export Controls and Innovation in Sanctioned Countries.” Harvard Business School Working Paper No. 25-004, 2025. (Submitted.)