Abstract
This article contributes to discussions on the geographical dimension of innovation systems by shedding light on recent processes of 'regionalisation of innovation policy' in different national contexts. Current innovation policies as evolving in some of the EU countries and in Japan are critically examined in light of the development of regional innovation systems set within multi-level governance structures of knowledge production. In the concluding section, policy implications are discussed and opportunities and constraints that may present themselves from the current structural change in the global knowledge economy are identified. The article argues that the limited multi-level governance structure has hindered the evolution of regional innovation systems in Japan. Attention needs to be drawn to the formation of appropriate governance structures. Governance of science and innovation policy needs to be situated within a wider geographical and intellectual paradigm extending beyond the national framework. Creation of the right institutional set-up and co-ordination of various actors at regional, national and global levels are needed.
