Gaps in science and technology production: a comparative analysis between El Salvador and the United States using RICYT indicators

Abstract

This study analyzes the gaps in science and technology production between El Salvador and the United States during the period 1990–2022, using indicators from the RICYT Network. The main objective is to evaluate the dynamics of convergence or divergence between the two countries using time series regression models. The diagnosis reveals deep structural weaknesses in El Salvador, highlighting research and development (R&D) spending stagnating at 0.1 % of GDP and human capital with low doctoral training, concentrated mainly in the social sciences to the detriment of engineering. El Salvador shows sustained and structural technological divergence from the United States, especially in technological production indicators such as the self-sufficiency rate and the invention coefficient.