The concepts "Industry 4.0", "fourth-generation industry", or "fourth industrial revolution" can be treated as synonymous, meaning digitalization and networking of production, along with the respective transformation of business models and strategies. The aim of the article is to discuss the specifics of Industry 4.0 in the context of international economic relations on the basis of a literature review. The analysis makes it possible to determine the key conditions for international exchange in the realities of the fourth industrial revolution. In particular, the paper will (a) give a systematic review of definitions and concepts involved in the fourth industrial revolution, (b) substantiate the treatment of this phenomenon as the result of a deliberate industrial policy, (c) propose a conceptual framework for the analysis of Industry 4.0 within international economic relations, (d) identify main challenges connected with digitalization, (e) indicate the conditions necessary for an effective international cooperation during the fourth industrial revolution.
