Navigating Barriers to Innovation An Introduction to Regulatory Shielding and the RQSi Framework

This study introduces the Regulatory Quadrant of Shielding and Innovativeness (RQSi), a conceptual framework by the author that untangles the complex relationship between government regulatory practices and innovation within developing economies. This article forms part of a broader investigation into regulatory quality and technological growth dynamics, where the researcher identifies “regulatory shielding,” a phenomenon where protective policy measures unintentionally hinder technological adoption and stifle innovation. Through comprehensive statistical analysis, the study uncovers critical insights into the roles of the Regulatory Quality Index (RQI), Human Development Index (HDI), and Global Innovation Index (GII), in fostering innovation. The findings reveal that supportive regulatory frameworks and targeted government interventions significantly enhance socio-economic readiness (SER), enabling the adoption of emerging technologies that drive competitive advantage and market evolution. This article advocates for reducing regulatory shielding and promoting collaboration among governments, industries, and academia to accelerate technological ambidexterity and economic transformation. By establishing the RQSi Framework, this research provides a robust foundation for future studies to refine policy designs that promote innovation and sustainable development. Therefore, offering actionable pathways to reshape regulatory environments and build innovation-led economies.