SDG #9 is to “Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation”

Within SDG #9 are 8 targets, of which we here focus on Target 9.b:

Support domestic technology development, research and innovation in developing countries, including by ensuring a conducive policy environment for, inter alia, industrial diversification and value addition to commodities

Target 9.b has one indicator:

Indicator 9.b.1: Proportion of medium and high-tech industry value added in total value added

The valued added from manufacturing in medium and high-tech industries implies an elevated level of R&D expenditure. The world leader by share of GDP from medium and high-tech value added as of 2020 is Singapore with 82%. Switzerland, South Korea, Qatar, and Germany each have a 60-65% share in their respective GDP’s. The world’s share is 45%. This hasn't changed since 2015. This is also the case with the least developed countries, which have a 10% share of their GDP for medium and high-tech industry value-added.