Professor Sajid Anwar is a core member of the Indigenous and Transcultural Research Centre (ITRC) at the University of the Sunshine Coast and an internationally recognised scholar in international trade, foreign direct investment (FDI), innovation, and global value chain dynamics. His research spans Asia–Pacific development, firm-level productivity, and the economic impacts of globalisation. Professor Anwar’s work integrates advanced economic modelling with applied policy relevance, informing governments, industry bodies, and international organisations.

His current work examines how global investment flows, innovation activities, and transnational economic initiatives shape development trajectories in rapidly industrialising regions, particularly China and the broader Asia–Pacific.

Key Research Impact

Professor Anwar’s research has significantly advanced understanding of how FDI influences industrial upgrading, innovation capacity, and export sophistication in emerging economies. His contributions provide robust empirical evidence that helps shape national and regional economic policy, particularly in areas of productivity enhancement, global value chain participation, and international competitiveness. His recent studies including new work on innovation performance, methodological advances in economic modelling, and analyses of major transnational initiatives such as China’s Belt and Road continue to strengthen the evidence base used by policymakers, development agencies, and industry strategists.

Translation to Practice and Policy

Professor Anwar’s work directly informs:

• economic development and industrial policy frameworks
• foreign investment strategies and regulatory approaches
• innovation, productivity and competitiveness programs
• geopolitical and regional development analysis
• industry decision-making in global value chain participation

His research is widely used by policymakers, economic analysts and development organisations seeking evidence-based insights into global economic transformation.

Recognition and Significance

With an extensive international publication record, ongoing global collaborations and a sustained record of scholarly leadership, Professor Anwar has established a strong international profile in his field. His work advances the Centre’s vision and values by strengthening UniSC’s capacity for globally engaged, socially impactful, and transculturally informed economic research.