Economic foresight study on industrial trends and the research needed to support the competitiveness of European Industry around 2025

The purpose of this study was to develop qualitative and quantitative prospective scenarios of the positioning and potential of European industry in those sectors, where research in nanotechnologies, materials and production technologies (NMP) is expected to make an impact. The study identified the key factors which influenced economic competitiveness and employment in the past, and subsequently used a quantitative model to assess different scenarios around 2025. Despite the limitations of the model in quantifying all relevant factors, the study used additional inputs such as validation workshops with experts, and confirmed the key factors in R&D for industrial competitiveness: a shift of focus towards innovation; the importance of skills and resources; and responding to market needs, by developing integrated value chains and demand-side actions.