The document analyzes the competitive disadvantage faced by licensed manufacturers in emerging markets with high piracy rates. It discusses a study by Keystone Strategy that looked at software piracy in the manufacturing sector across 17 emerging market countries. The study found that manufacturers who play by the rules see intellectual property protection as necessary for innovation growth. These leading manufacturers view information technology as a key differentiator and competitive advantage. They are well-licensed because it is the ethical choice and licensed software provides technical benefits over pirated versions.