Industrial Policy Under Pressure

Act as an industrial strategist. Explain how governments decide when to support distressed firms, regulate mergers, or redesign taxes and subsidies to protect employment, competition, and national capabilities. Use examples from manufacturing, telecoms, aviation, and consumer goods to show how industrial policy balances short-term rescue with long-term competitiveness. End with a decision framework for whether a troubled sector should be propped up, restructured, merged, or allowed to shrink.