AbstractA few key assumptions underpinning the debate are spelled out, and some of the important new rules of the economic game that has been triggered by the emergence of a knowledge-based global economic order are summarized. This new international order creates challenges for firms and governments: we must broaden our understanding of the new possibilities but also the constraints brought as unintended consequences. It is hoped that the Six Countries Program might be a forum likely to provide its participants with definite competitive advantage in the program of study now required.