This article analyzes the industrial policy implemented in Mexico as a result of the trade liberalization, highlighting its role in the configuration of an industrial specialization pattern that revolved around in-bond assembly activities and whose main feature was manufactured goods with low value added and little local technological knowledge. By contrast, a synthesis of public measures which brought about the upgrading of manufacturing activities in Taiwan gives rise to a debate about the relevance of the State as a promoter of productive development and questions the possibilities of developing countries to move up within international manufacturing linkages.