The world is navigating an intricate landscape shaped by climate change, the digital economy, pandemic threats, and widening economic disparities between industrialized nations and others. This scenario necessitates a thorough re-evaluation of industrial transformation—the cornerstone of economic growth.

The pressing challenges confronting global economies demand novel strategies to catalyze industrialization. Historically favored models of industrialization, lauded for their efficacy, have not universally delivered the anticipated outcomes. This raises critical questions: What barriers prevent their successful implementation elsewhere? Furthermore, in light of the burgeoning digital economy, what is the future of manufacturing within this transformative framework?

The discourse surrounding the role of new technologies, the relevance of services, and energy paradigms in the industrial continuum are all equally vital. Not all countries might benefit uniformly from a service-oriented approach, highlighting the need for tailored strategies that resonate with local contexts.

The role of the State emerges as a linchpin in fostering resilience amid increasing turbulence. How can governmental frameworks adapt to bolster industrialization in an era characterized by unpredictability? Moreover, promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialization is paramount, particularly in nations vulnerable to external shocks.

The Forum for Industrialization Futures (FIF) stands at the forefront of these discussions, advocating for innovative and diverse industrial models. It brings together industry, governments and academics to create new coalitions to address questions that confront the process of industrialisation, while dealing with the imperatives of sustainable development, inequality, new technologies and a rapidly changing global environment.

We engage with tangible realities and data-centric approaches to formulate policies that facilitate effective structural transformation, particularly in developing regions, with a focused lens on Africa. Our commitment lies in addressing these multifaceted challenges by collaborating with key stakeholders - governments, academics, practitioners, policymakers and industry - to shape a resilient economic future.