AbstractThe role of government in developing countries in the transfer of technology from industrialised nations is investigated. The experience of some successful countries in formulating sound laws and regulations to control the flow of technology into their environment is presented, along with some of the difficulties encountered by others. Those discussed are Kuwait (as one of the rich Gulf states), India, Nigeria, Brazily and Mexico. Governments must play a vital role in furnishing an appropriate legal framework to eliminate any restriction which might be imposed by foreign firms. There is an urgent need for developing countries to enact laws and regulations on technology transfer so that indigenous capabilities can be enhanced.