The article examines the role of international specialization in shaping competitive advantages of national economies. The author analyzes key theoretical approaches, including D. Ricardo’s theory of comparative ad-vantage and modern concepts of global value chains (GVC), revealing the mechanisms of integration of coun-tries into the global division of labor. Particular attention is paid to factors that enhance the positive effect of specialization: productivity growth due to the scale effect, stimulation of export-oriented industries and accel-eration of innovation processes. However, risks are also highlighted, such as raw material dependence, vul-nerability to external shocks and technological backwardness when concentrating on low-tech segments. Using the examples of South Korea (technology sector), Mexico (automotive manufacturing) and China (electronics manufacturing), the author demonstrates how specialization contributes to economic growth, but requires sup-plementation with diversification strategies to ensure sustainability. In conclusion, the need for a flexible policy that combines deepening specialization with the development of related industries and investment in R & D is substantiated.
Svetlana A. Varvus (Wed,) studied this question.