In this paper we present a computable general equilibrium model for the region
of Sardinia for the purpose of evaluating the capacity of R&D policies to affect the
long run rate of growth. The model incorporates induced technical change and allow
for external knowledge spillovers. We find that the cost of R&D policies may
change according to the wage setting prevailing into the region. Furthermore, the
capacity of such a policy to generate knowledge spillovers from the international and
interregional trade are quite modest. Indeed, the capacity of the regional system to
internalize the technological level embody in the imported good is partially offset by
an increase in internal efficiency lowering the share of import but increasing
competitiveness
