"Critical technologies" are strategically significant techologies to a geography’s economic resilience, security, and competitiveness based on the vital role they play in a region’s foundational industries, infrastructure, and supply chains.

The concept of critical technologies first emerged in the post-World War II era, as the U.S. and the Soviet Union raced for technological supremacy across defense, space exploration and nuclear weapons. Later, as Japan emerged as a technology powerhouse in the 1980s, the concept of critical technologies took on increased importance as nations began to recognize the strong link between technological superiority and economic competitiveness and national security. Today, critical technology frameworks continue to shape policy, R&D investments, and economic strategies as governments worldwide prioritize securing supply chains, driving innovation to maintain technological sovereignty and competitiveness in key industrial sectors.

In short, unblocking critical technologies enables entire regional economies to thrive and shapes global industries for decades.