industriessuch

Industriessuch is a term that appears in some economic and policy discussions to describe a notional grouping of industries defined by shared structural characteristics rather than by conventional sector classifications. It is a neologism rather than a widely standardized label, and its meaning can vary between authors. When used, industriessuch aims to enable comparative analysis of how different sectors respond to investment, regulation, and technological change.

Origins and usage: The term emerged in the late 2010s and early 2020s in a subset of policy papers and academic writings that sought to move beyond traditional manufacturing-focused frameworks. Proponents describe industriessuch as a criteria-based concept used to assess sectors with similar capital intensity, scale economies, supply-chain complexity, and infrastructure linkages.

Characteristics: Industriessuch sectors typically feature high capital intensity, long investment cycles, and significant reliance on specialized equipment and skilled labor. They often require large upfront investments, have extended depreciation timelines, and depend on extensive networks of suppliers, utilities, and transport infrastructure. They may also face stringent regulatory regimes and environmental considerations.

Applications and examples: The concept is used to discuss policy priorities such as industrial policy, infrastructure spending, and innovation strategy. Sectors commonly invoked include manufacturing of durable goods, construction, energy production and transmission, mining, steel and other heavy industries, and transportation services. The term does not establish a fixed list, but rather a framework for analysis.

Criticism and relationships: Critics argue that industriessuch is vague and overlaps with established classifications. Without clear criteria, comparisons risk misinterpretation. Some writers prefer conventional terms like "industrial sectors" or specific NAICS/ISIC category labels. When used, the term is typically accompanied by explicit criteria, data sources, and boundaries to ensure transparency.