|
on Central and Western Asia |
| By: | Shahbaz, Muhammad; Tiwari, Aviral Kumar; Tahir, Mohammad Iqbal |
| Abstract: | This study analyzes the time-frequency relationship between oil price and exchange rate for Pakistan by using measures of continuous wavelet such as wavelet power, cross-wavelet power, and cross-wavelet coherency. The results of cross-wavelet analysis indicate that covariance between oil price and exchange rate are unable to give clear-cut results but both variables have been in phase and out phase (i.e. they are anti-cyclical and cyclical in nature) in some or other durations. However, results of squared wavelet coherence disclose that both variables are out of phase and real exchange rate was leading during the entire period studied, corresponding to the 10~15 months scale. These results are the unique contribution of the present study, which would have not been drawn if one would have utilized any other time series or frequency domain based approach. This finding provides evidence of anti-cyclical relationship between oil price and real effective exchange rate. However; in most of the period studied, real exchange rate was leading and passing anti-cycle effects on oil price shocks which is the major contribution of the study. |
| Keywords: | Oil prices, exchange rate, Pakistan |
| JEL: | C5 |
| Date: | 2013–04–23 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:48086&r=cwa |
| By: | Robert F. Owen (Asian Development Bank Institute (ADBI)) |
| Abstract: | This paper assesses the nexus between changes in governance structures—at national and cooperative international levels—and evolutionary processes of economic integration in light of regional policy targets in Asia. The analysis highlights the importance of improved governance as an essential condition for effectively attaining an “Asian Economic Community†while arguing that the experience of the European Union (EU) offers valuable insights regarding the process of integration. |
| Keywords: | governance structure, economic integration, Asian Economic Community |
| JEL: | F15 P48 |
| Date: | 2013–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:eab:govern:23432&r=cwa |
| By: | Bhalotra, Sonia R. (University of Bristol); Clots-Figueras, Irma (Universidad Carlos III de Madrid); Cassan, Guilhem (University of Namur); Iyer, Lakshmi (Harvard Business School) |
| Abstract: | This paper investigates whether the religious identity of state legislators in India influences development outcomes, both for citizens of their religious group and for the population as a whole. To control for politician identity to be correlated with constituency level voter preferences or characteristics that make religion salient, we use quasi-random variation in legislator identity generated by close elections between Muslim and non-Muslim candidates. We find that increasing the political representation of Muslims improves health and education outcomes in the district from which the legislator is elected. We find no evidence of religious favoritism: Muslim children do not benefit more from Muslim political representation than children from other religious groups. |
| Keywords: | religion, politician identity, infant mortality, primary education, India, Muslim |
| JEL: | I15 J13 H41 P16 |
| Date: | 2013–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:iza:izadps:dp7473&r=cwa |
| By: | Eller, Markus (BOFIT); Fidrmuc, Jarko (BOFIT); Fungácová , Zuzana (BOFIT) |
| Abstract: | This paper investigates the relationship between fiscal policy and output volatility in Russian regions between 2000 and 2009. System GMM estimation techniques are used to account for potential endogeneity between output volatility and fiscal developments. Our main finding is that fiscal activism, proxied by various measures of discretionary fiscal policy, contributes to output volatility and so induces macroeconomic instability at the regional level in Russia. This result corroborates previous studies using cross-country data. To reduce business cycle fluctuations, it would be necessary to curtail pro-cyclical fiscal activism at the regional level, e.g. via fiscal rules and sound institutions of fiscal federalism. |
| Keywords: | output volatility; automatic stabilizers; discretionary fiscal policy; dynamic panel models; Russia |
| JEL: | E32 E62 R11 |
| Date: | 2013–06–17 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hhs:bofitp:2013_013&r=cwa |
| By: | Konstanin Kazenin (Gaidar Institute for Economic Policy) |
| Abstract: | The author deals with the a wide scope of issues related to the North Caucasus region of the Russian Federation. He provides an in depth analysis of the national movement as well as investment projects and local communities interests. |
| Keywords: | Russian Federation, North Caucasus |
| JEL: | P26 |
| Date: | 2013 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:gai:ppaper:138&r=cwa |
| By: | Jeongmeen Suh (Korea Institute for International Economic Policy (KIEP)); Jong Duk Kim |
| Abstract: | This study provides a conceptual framework to explain what kinds of difficulties a late-follower will suffer from when it tries to join pre-existing International Production Networks (IPNs). We consider the total production cost minimization problem by a multinational company (MNC) in allocating locations of fragmented production processes across borders. From the clarification of IPNrelated costs, we draw out what structural disadvantages late-follower countries have and provide several policy implications to overcome these disadvantages with more targeted efforts. Especially we put India’s case in the conceptual framework of the IPNs and then look at the hurdles that make India’s participation in the East Asian IPNs hard and sluggish. Relevant data are provided in order to support the theoretical explanations. |
| Keywords: | Multinational Corporations, International Production Networks, East Asia, India, Production cost advantage, analytical model of international production networks |
| JEL: | F23 F12 L22 |
| Date: | 2013–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:eab:microe:23434&r=cwa |
| By: | Richard O. Cunningham |
| Abstract: | This paper discusses the challenges that confront the WTO, inspired by the recent appointment of a new Director-General for the organization and various views that have been expressed by knowledgeable observers as to how these challenges should be addressed. The paper focuses in particular on the prescriptions expressed by Ambassador Robert Zoellick, a former United States Trade Representative, regarding what the Director-General should focus on, and lays out an alternative view of the path forward for the WTO and for sustaining multilateral cooperation on trade. |
| Keywords: | WTO, trade negotiations, multilateral trading system, developing countries, trade agreements |
| Date: | 2013–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:rsc:rsceui:2013/10&r=cwa |
| By: | Peerally, Jahan A. (Ecole des Hautes Etudes Commerciales (HEC), Montreal); Figueiredo, Paulo N. (Brazilian School of Public and Business Administration (EBAPE), Getulio Vargas Foundation (FGV), Rio de Janeiro) |
| Abstract: | Although there has been considerable research on firm-level technological capability building in the context of developing economies, there is a scarcity of studies which examine this issue in multinational enterprises' socially motivated businesses located in less developed economies. This paper examines the latterissue on the basis of first-hand empirical evidence derived from an extensive field research on Grameen-Danone Foods Limited (GDFL) in Bangladesh. The study found that GDFL generated relevant spillovers to the host economy by accumulating production capabilities in association with innovation capabilities at intermediate levels across four technological functions: project management, process and production organization, product centred and equipment-related. Apart from revealing the types of frugal and reverse innovations which emanates from such a business, our study also explores - unlike existing studies which only focus on the financial and social benefits - the technological benefits generated froma social business model.Understanding the nature and dynamics of technological activities in social businesses of less developed economies is relevant for the achievement of enhanced local, autonomous and sustainable economic and social development. |
| Keywords: | Technological capability building, MNEs, MNE subsidiaries, social businesses, entrepreneurship, bottom of the pyramid, less developed countries, Bangladesh |
| JEL: | M16 O32 Q16 Q18 |
| Date: | 2013 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:dgr:unumer:2013036&r=cwa |
| By: | Ejsing, Ann-Kathrine (Danish Insurance Association); Kaiser, Ulrich (University of Zurich); Kongsted, Hans Christian (University of Copenhagen); Laursen, Keld (Copenhagen Business School) |
| Abstract: | Scientific knowledge is an important ingredient in the innovation process. Drawing on the knowledge-based view of the firm and the literature on the relationship between science and technology, this paper scrutinizes the importance of university scientists' mobility for firms' innovative activities. Combining patent data and matched employer-employee data for Danish firms, we can track the labor mobility of R&D workers from 1999 to 2004. We find that new joiners contribute more than long-term employees to innovative activity in the focal firm. Among new firm recruits, we observe that newly hired former university researchers contribute more to innovative activity than newly hired recent graduates or joiners from firms, but only in firms with a high level of absorptive capacity in the form of recent experience of hiring university researchers. We find also that firms' recent experience of hiring university researchers enhances the effect of newly hired recent graduates' contributions to innovation. |
| Keywords: | innovative activity, science-technology relationship, labor mobility |
| JEL: | O33 O34 C23 |
| Date: | 2013–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:iza:izadps:dp7470&r=cwa |
| By: | Andersson, Fredrik N. G. (Department of Economics, Lund University); Burzynska, Katarzyna (Department of Economics, Lund University); Opper, Sonja (Department of Economics, Lund University) |
| Abstract: | This paper provides the first comparative analysis of different types of publicly owned banks operating in China between 1997 and 2008. Using principal component analysis and Granger-causality tests, this study shows that China’s state-owned commercial banks and rural credit cooperatives did not promote GDP growth during the observation period. State-owned commercial banks even had a negative effect on growth in the manufacturing sector. By contrast, state policy banks and joint stock commercial banks did promote domestic growth. China’s experience presents a more nuanced picture of state banking that goes beyond the role of ownership to consider functional and institutional differences. |
| Keywords: | China; Banking sector; Economic growth |
| JEL: | G21 O16 P30 |
| Date: | 2013–06–17 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hhs:lunewp:2013_019&r=cwa |
| By: | Briones, Roehlano M. |
| Abstract: | To illuminate the role of agro-export industry in inclusive growth, this case study on Philippine mango focuses on the role of market structure in the distribution of export benefits. It is based on review of industry trends and related studies, open-ended interviews of key informants, and structured interviews of respondents situated along the value chain. The distribution of trade benefits is hypothesized to depend on both vertical and horizontal market structure. The former implies that a contracting relationship or vertical integration is a mechanism to elevate product quality to export grade. The latter implies that economies of scale are a factor in mango exporting at the marketing and processing stages. It is noteworthy that there are no discernible economies of scale at the primary level, which accounts for the prevalence of smallholder growing at the production stage. Quantitative analysis confirms that vertical linkages are an important factor in raising mango quality to export grade. Moreover, enterprise size is an important factor in producing or procuring export grade mango. This in turn accounts for the prominence of horizontal market structure in the export sector. However, the importance of scale economies in the industry should not be overstated. Investment requirements do rule out small-scale operations, but are perfectly within reach of medium-size firms. Considerably, more entry is possible with adequate and stable supply of quality raw material at reasonable cost. In fact entry has been recorded in both fresh and processed exports, though exits are also frequent; the largest firms, especially among processors, tend to be the longest lived. To facilitate entry, encourage diversity, and widen distribution of benefits from exporting, concerned stakeholders must focus on relieving the key constraint, which is availability of stable and affordable supply of fresh mango of export grade for either fresh or processed sectors. This requires regulatory reforms, reliable database of mango growers, investments in R&D, and improvements in the extension system to offer technical assistance and technology transfer. |
| Keywords: | distribution, Philippines, market structure, agricultural exports, vertical linkages |
| Date: | 2013 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:phd:dpaper:dp_2013-16&r=cwa |
| By: | Azis, Iwan J. (Asian Development Bank) |
| Abstract: | Although growth deceleration in the People’s Republic of China (PRC) is inevitable, if the country’s new direction of financial policy (on exchange rate, capital flows, banking, capital market) can be achieved, it will be good not only for the country but also for the rest of Asia. This is consistent with the increased degree of Asia’s integration and interdependence. But given the nature of financial contagion and spillovers across countries and asset classes, the financial headwinds from global crisis may require regional cooperation in safety nets provision, as the domestic policy in the PRC and other Asian countries is likely insufficient. Equally essential is the cooperation among Asian regulators to secure financial stability and enhance market liquidity. If coordinated well, such cooperation can also strengthen Asia’s collective voice to ensure that harmonization of international rules does not mean applying the same laws in all jurisdictions, and that the global debates on bank-centric regulations do not have adverse consequences on Asian capital markets. |
| Keywords: | PRC financial policy; global headwind; Asia interdependence; regional cooperation; financial regulation |
| JEL: | E52 E58 F31 F36 G15 G18 |
| Date: | 2013–06–01 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ris:adbrei:0114&r=cwa |
| By: | Dong Xiang; Andrew C Worthington |
| Keywords: | small and medium-sized enterprises, government financial assistance, firm performance, availability of finance |
| JEL: | C25 L21 G32 |
| Date: | 2013–07 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:gri:fpaper:finance:201307&r=cwa |
| By: | Briones, Roehlano M. |
| Abstract: | Expansion of global trade has been heralded as a great boon for agriculture. However, benefits of such expansion has been seen by some quarters as inequitable due to the role of large agribusiness firms and conglomerates. This study synthesizes existing research on the market structure of agro-industry trade. Its key findings are as follows: - The dominance of large-scale operations is more pronounced in the downstream stages. Moreover, distribution for foreign markets is the most concentrated part of the global chain. - Increasing horizontal concentration, and vertical coordination, arises from a set of supply drivers (e.g., technological change), demand drivers (e.g., rising purchasing power), policies, and institutional factors. - There is some evidence for significant market power being exercised among the more concentrated value chains. Furthermore, indications that market concentration can also be leveraged to widen the exercise of market power via coordination along a supply chain. However, the association is not absolute. - At the farm level, the evidence is more solid: size of land asset or scale of production, by itself, does not seem to disqualify smallholders from supplying to consolidated value chains, as there are enabling schemes such as supervised contract growing, cooperatives, farmer associations, and the like. More critical however are human capital, farm management practices, and other assets such as equipment and irrigation facilities. Despite the great volume of relevant literature, the tentative nature of the findings stated above indicate wide scope for further research in this area. Better information and analysis could perhaps pave the way toward design of policies for more equitable and yet productive and efficient global value chains. |
| Keywords: | distribution, agricultural trade, market structure, global value chain |
| Date: | 2013 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:phd:dpaper:dp_2013-15&r=cwa |
| By: | 長岡, 貞男; 細野, 光章; 赤池, 伸一; 西村, 淳一 |
| Abstract: | 本報告書は、産学連携研究プロジェクトに従事した国立大学及び企業の共同発明者に対し て行った我が国で初めての大規模調査(大学研究者743名、企業研究者704名からの 回答、2004〜2007年度の出願特許)の結果を報告している。報告書は実施した調 査の概要、アンケート調査回答者の属性、産学連携プロジェクトの形成とその基本構造、 産学連携の動機ときっかけ、産学連携プロジェクトのマネジメント、研究プロジェクトへ のインプット(人材と資金)、産学連携プロジェクトの成果と波及効果等の章から構成さ れる。(1)橋渡しとしての産学連携プロジェクト、(2)産学連携へのニーズとシーズ の源泉、(3)産学連携プロジェクトで利用されている研究資源の多様性、(4)産学連 携プロジェクトにおける国内知識源の重要性と産学連携の国内産業への重要性、(5)産 学連携プロジェクトに参加している研究者の特徴、(6)産学共同発明の出願構造、(7 )産学間のパートナーのマッチング、(8)産学連携プロジェクトのマネジメントの融合 、(9)研究プロジェクトへのインプット(人材と資金)、(10)シーズ研究の資金源 と産学連携プロジェクトの資金源の関係、(11)産学連携プロジェクトの成果の商業化 、(12)産学連携プロジェクトによる研究能力向上への成果とフォローアップ研究の頻 度、(13)プロジェクト実施による当初目標の達成度等について、重要な基礎的知見が 得られた。 |
| Keywords: | 産学連携, 知識, 共同発明, シーズ, ニーズ, 特許, ノウハウ, 人材 |
| Date: | 2013–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hit:iirwps:13-14&r=cwa |
| By: | Charyulu, D.Kumara; Bantilan, MCS; Rajalaxmi, A |
| Abstract: | Sorghum is the third cereal crop after rice and wheat in India, mostly grown under marginal and stress-prone areas of Semi-Arid Tropics (SAT). NARS, ICRISAT and private seed companies are the major stakeholders working for sorghum crop improvement in the last five decades (1960-2012). Altogether more than 256 improved cultivars have been notified and made available to farmers during the same time. The current knowledge about spread and impact of sorghum improved crop varieties in the country is incomplete. The present study made an attempt to address these issues with help of primary as well as secondary sources of information. The analysis has concluded that nearly 80 per cent of total sorghum area is under improved cultivars which helped to increase the country productivity levels by 85 per cent during 1960 and 2010. This aptly proves that role of sorghum improved cultivars in sustaining the higher yields. |
| Keywords: | Development of improved cultivars, diffusion of sorghum improved cultivars in India, Impact on yield Growth and variability, Crop Production/Industries, Environmental Economics and Policy, |
| Date: | 2013–02 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ags:aare13:152141&r=cwa |
| By: | Vivien Procher; Diemo Urbig; Christine Volkmann |
| Abstract: | For a sample of 1243 European companies, we analyse the link between firm type and foreign direct investment (FDI) locations. We find substantial empirical evidence that being a family firm does not only affect the overall propensity for FDI but that this effect is also specific to target regions. Overall, family firms invest more than managerial-led firms, particularly in Europe and North America. Furthermore the BRIC countries Brazil, Russia, India and China do not constitute a homogenous attractiveness cluster for FDI. |
| Keywords: | Foreign direct investment; family firms; BRIC |
| JEL: | D21 F23 L22 |
| Date: | 2013–05 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:rwi:repape:0416&r=cwa |
| By: | OHNO Yuka |
| Abstract: | I construct a simple thee-period game to investigate the effects of patent infringement litigations and patent ownership by non-practicing entities (NPEs) on technology selection for a new product. A firm may choose to embed fewer high-tech features into the new product in order to avoid or delay potential patent infringement lawsuits. NPEs tend to bring patent infringement lawsuits later than practicing entities (PE). In contrast to commonly believed, the technology-adopting firm may be willing to incorporate more technology features when the potentially-infringing patents are owned by an NPE than by a PE. |
| Date: | 2013–07 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:eti:rdpsjp:13050&r=cwa |
| By: | KITANO Taiju |
| Abstract: | The US government criticized Japanese environmental policies, which promoted eco-friendly car (eco-car) purchases via measures such as tax exemptions and subsidies, as disguised forms of protection by arguing that the fuel economy standard for the subsidy qualification was designed to be more beneficial to domestic firms. This paper examines Japanese environmental policies from 2005-2009 to assess whether or not they were adequately formulated from an environmental perspective. The analysis compares the outcomes between the actual fuel economy standard for subsidy qualification introduced in Japan and an alternative standard suggested by the US government. Simulation results based on the structural econometric model of multi-product oligopolistic competition show that although both alternative and actual standards are comparable for the average fuel economy of new cars sold, the former is inefficient in improving the fuel economy because it requires much larger subsidies to achieve the same average fuel economy level as that of the latter. |
| Date: | 2013–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:eti:dpaper:13059&r=cwa |
| By: | Jolanda Hessels; Peter van der Zwan; Mark Sanders |
| Abstract: | There is evidence that entrepreneurial activity plays a non-negligible role in driving economic development. In this paper we investigate whether the industry in which the entrepreneurial activity takes place matters for economic growth, both in developed and developing countries. We distinguish between three types of entrepreneurial activity, based on the technology intensity that is involved: entrepreneurship without any technology intensity, low technology entrepreneurship, and high technology entrepreneurship. Data from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor are used to construct early-stage entrepreneurial activity rates for almost 70 countries and for 9 years (2001-2009). We first show that entrepreneurial activity is heavily concentrated in no-tech industries, even in advanced economies. In our regressions, we then find that entrepreneurial activity in high-tech industries creates more economic growth as compared to no-tech and low-tech industries. This stresses the importance of high-tech entrepreneurship; in addition, we show that entrepreneurs active in high-tech industries are higher educated and have higher job growth expectations than entrepreneurs in no-tech or low-tech industries. Practical implications are formulated in the concluding section. |
| Date: | 2013–04–23 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:eim:papers:h201307&r=cwa |
| By: | Motkuri, Venkatanarayana |
| Abstract: | The present background paper reviews the progress of education including K12, vocational and higher education, skill development and literacy particularly during the last two decades in Andhra Pradesh and an attempt is made to identify gaps. It is observed that pre-primary education in the state, as is the case of all over India, still neglected and needs a strong policy intervention. With respect to school education, although the quantitative expansion is remarkable in the state as well as in India thanks to DPEP and SSA initiatives, the quality of education is still cause of concern. Besides, the progress in school education is the still short of meeting the goal of universal elementary education. The higher education too is suffering with the quantity-quality trade-off. The expansion of vocational education is inadequate and there is a lacuna skill development programmes in the state. Again, despite the progress in expansion of education in the state literacy rate is one of the lowest in Andhra Pradesh when compared with rest of the states in India. Simulation exercise has shown that unless there is a strong policy intervention, Andhra Pradesh will never achieve universal adult literacy in the near future. All these are pertinent issues particularly in the context of harnessing demographic dividend in the state as well as all over India. |
| Keywords: | Andhra Pradesh, School Education, K12, Pre-Primary, Primary, Secondary, Higher Education, Vocational Education, Literacy, Adult Literacy, Skill Development |
| JEL: | I20 I21 I22 I23 I24 I25 I28 |
| Date: | 2013–07–09 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:48144&r=cwa |
| By: | Woosik Moon (Asian Development Bank Institute (ADBI)) |
| Abstract: | As cross-border movements of goods, capital, and labor are intensifying, it is likely that goods markets in East Asia will become increasingly integrated. This study investigates the current state of goods market integration in East Asia by measuring the extent of cross-border price differentials. Specifically, this study shows that compared with the European Union (EU), East Asian markets are neither sufficiently integrated nor are they showing any price convergence over time. Examining the factors and hurdles that prevent East Asian countries from approaching the European level of market integration, this study also shows that such wide price differentials could be explained largely by greater exchange rate volatilities and wider intra-regional income gaps, together with insufficient regionalization efforts. This result highlights the importance of a three-pronged integration strategy covering trade, money, and development policies, and of East Asia-wide regional institutions which, incorporating both developed and developing Asian countries, help promote more free trade agreements (FTAs) and prevent financial crises. |
| Keywords: | Goods market integration, East Asia, cross-border price differentials, price convergence, regionalization, integration strategy |
| JEL: | F15 F36 |
| Date: | 2013–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:eab:govern:23433&r=cwa |
| By: | Francesco Quatraro; Marco Vivarelli |
| Abstract: | The aim of this paper is to provide an updated survey of the "state of the art" in entrepreneurial studies, with a particular focus on developing countries (DCs). In particular, the same concept of "entrepreneurship" will be critically discussed, then moving to the institutional, macroeconomic and microeconomic conditions affecting the entry of new firms and the post-entry performance of newborn firms. |
| Keywords: | entrepreneurship, new firm, innovation, development |
| JEL: | L26 O12 |
| Date: | 2013–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:gre:wpaper:2013-20&r=cwa |
| By: | Marine Hadengue; Thierry Warin |
| Abstract: | The purpose of this paper is to highlight a version of the Balassa-Samuelson effect for emerging countries with a new dataset. More than the catching-up effect, we will measure the convergence for three emerging countries: Brazil/China/India. We will compare the convergence between these countries and the productivity frontier represented by the U.S. over the past 10 years. A first contribution is that as the distance between the level of labor productivity in Brazil (China, India) and the United States decreases, the growth rate of labor productivity within the country decreases. In other words, the higher the level of productivity in an industry, the lower its growth rate, showing a convergence to the productivity frontier. A second contribution is that there is unconditional convergence as measured at the industry level. <P> |
| Keywords: | economic convergence, endogenous growth, Brazil, China, India, labor productivity, |
| JEL: | O40 O41 O43 O47 O53 |
| Date: | 2013–06–01 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:cir:cirwor:2013s-17&r=cwa |
| By: | Youssouf KIENDREBEOGO |
| Abstract: | This paper investigates whether banking crises are associated with declines in bilateral exports. We first develop a simple open economy model in which banking crises translate into negative liquidity shocks, leading to collapses in exports through supply-side and demand-side shocks. We then estimate a gravity model using a sample of developed and developing countries over the period 1988-2010. The results suggest that crisis-hit countries experience lower levels of bilateral exports, particularly in developing countries where supply-side shocks are found to be relatively more important than demand shocks. In developing countries, exports of manufactured goods are disproportionately hurt by banking crises and this negative effect is stronger in industries relying more on external finance. These findings are robust to correcting for potential endogeneity, to changes in the sample, and to alternative estimation methods. |
| Keywords: | Banking Crises, Exports, Trade Finance F14, G01 |
| JEL: | G1 F14 |
| Date: | 2013 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:cdi:wpaper:1448&r=cwa |
| By: | Aldaba, Rafaelita M.; Aldaba, Fernando T. |
| Abstract: | The paper aims to assess and determine the capacity-building needs required to liberalize trade in services in the Philippines. Through the ASEAN Framework on the Trade in Services, the Philippines has committed to liberalize various sectors including air transport, maritime transport, construction, financial services, and telecommunications. The country has also signed seven Mutual Recognition Agreements in engineering, nursing, architecture, land surveying, medical, dental practice, and accountancy. The overall progress of services liberalization has been modest compared to trade in goods. Due mainly to constitutional restrictions, limitations on market access and national treatment are still imposed and foreign service providers continue to be subject to limits on equity participation, participation in the Board of Directors, acquisition of land, and practice of professions. Apart from these constitutional and legal constraints, the other obstacles to services liberalization include high cost of doing business, inadequate infrastructure, and governance issues affecting the competitiveness of industries; inefficient coordination among government agencies involved in trade in services; lack of awareness among key stakeholders of the benefits from services reforms; lack of a comprehensive strategy on services liberalization; and lack of capable staff members in key government agencies. Clear gaps in the capacity of national agencies and regulators to effectively implement the country`s services liberalization commitments exist. To address these, the paper suggests capacity-building and technical assistance activities covering the crafting of an overall trade in services strategy as part of a more comprehensive trade strategy covering both goods and services; formulating roadmaps for the various services sectors; and enhancing current coordination mechanisms among government agencies and the private/civil society sectors. |
| Keywords: | ASEAN, capacity building, Philippines, services |
| Date: | 2013 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:phd:dpaper:dp_2013-06&r=cwa |
| By: | Motkuri, Venkatanarayana |
| Abstract: | The paper presents the development status of SC and ST in Andhra Pradesh, their problems and prospects from the inclusive growth and human development perspectives. It presents the prevailing situation in respect of SC/ST and their level of backwardness with respect to parameters such as income, land ownership, health indicators, educational attainments, access to basic infrastructure and basic amenities in the state. The analysis indicates that although there has been progress on many development indicators across these SC and ST communities in the state, they still lagged behind the ‘other’ social groups. Although the gaps between social groups are getting narrower in literacy and child schooling, gaps remained same with respect to educational levels among the adults. Health conditions among these communities have improved at a very slow pace. The situation is alarming with respect to economic well-being as the poverty level especially among the STs. Slow progress in expected change in structure of employment towards non-agriculture in general and stagnation among STs for a long time is a cause of concern. Moreover, landlessness had increased among these communities especially STs. Even among the SC, total number of operational holdings and area under these holdings is observed to be marginally declined in the recent past. These facts are cause for policy concern in the state. The policy initiative of special assistance through SCP/TSP in terms of budget allocations for the welfare and development of these (SC/ST) communities has not been fulfilled in implementation. Nevertheless the recent initiative of Government of Andhra Pradesh in this respect is promising. Given the actual situation of these communities with respect to their development status, more focused intervention is needed to enhance the pace of development among these communities. The impact of development of these communities (SC/ST), together comprised one-fifth of the total population, in the state on its aggregate level of development would be considerable. Apart, the backwardness of these communities indicates a violation of norms like equity, equality and social justice that ought to be followed in the development process in a welfare state, and of the rights of these communities to development equally on par with other communities. |
| Keywords: | Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Marginalised, Andhra Pradesh, Employment, Poverty, Welfare |
| JEL: | I30 I31 I32 I38 |
| Date: | 2013–01 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:48186&r=cwa |
| By: | Malgorzata Ogonowska; Dominique Torre |
| Abstract: | Since the expansion of environmental awareness and protection in recent decades, market actors, tourists and stake-holders, have been progressively more aware of ecological issues and conscious of existing pollution caused by mass tourism. Therefore, a new concept of sustainable tourism have appeared, ncluding environmental and societal concerns, as well as the development of more responsible products, which meet environmentally conscious consumers' needs. Subsequently, this paper considers the case of a tourism service provider, in a situation of monopoly, facing heterogeneous demand (differentiated by the sensibility to environmental issues) and located in a destination inhabited by a population of residents, more or less active in their resistance to tourism activities. Hence, this paper gives a theoretical framework of this 'service provider - residents - tourists' interaction. It shows that taking into account residents' actions leads the service provider to the reduction of his offer, and in most cases, to choose the sustainable solution. |
| Keywords: | Economics of Tourism, product heterogeneity, demand heterogeneity, sustainable tourism, residents-tourists relationship, resident actions, environmental norms |
| JEL: | L83 Q56 |
| Date: | 2013–05 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:gre:wpaper:2013-17&r=cwa |
| By: | Yap, Josef T.; Majuca, Ruperto P. |
| Abstract: | The Philippines continues to demonstrate a development puzzle. Despite abundant natural and human resources, its development record pales in comparison with its neighbors in East Asia. This study presents a SWOT analysis to explain the economic development of the Philippines. To overcome the threats and weaknesses, the Philippines should aspire for BRISK development: balanced, rapid, inclusive, sustainable, and capital-intensive economic growth. Policy recommendations include standard reforms related to expanding fiscal space and improving infrastructure. However, Philippine history requires that special attention be given to strengthening institutions and weakening the grip of oligarchs. The rapid rise of China and India and the establishment of the ASEAN Economic Community provide an opportunity to attract more foreign direct investment, diversify the productions base, and expand the role of small and medium-sized enterprises. |
| Keywords: | Philippines, ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), development puzzle, SWOT analysis, critical development constraints, balanced, rapid, sustainable, inclusive, and capital-intensive economic growth |
| Date: | 2013 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:phd:dpaper:dp_2013-27&r=cwa |
| By: | Dirk Dohse; Robert Gold |
| Abstract: | This paper discusses alternative measures of cultural diversity to be used in subsequent investigations of the impacts of cultural diversity on regional development in Europe. It derives indicators for the measurement of cultural diversity from the literature and describes possible adjustments and refinements. Finally, the discussed measures and weights are applied in order to provide a first descriptive overview of cultural diversity in in Europe at the regional (NUTS-2) level. |
| Keywords: | Regional development, cultural diversity, measurement issues |
| JEL: | M13 O18 R11 |
| Date: | 2013–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:feu:wfewop:y:2013:m:6:d:0:i:10&r=cwa |
| By: | Iida, Hiroshi |
| Date: | 2013–07 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ota:busdis:10252/5152&r=cwa |
| By: | Narula, Rajneesh (J.H. Dunning Centre for International Business, Henley Business School) |
| Abstract: | This paper examines the role of FDI in promoting industrial development, and raises a rather important question: Why, if FDI is such an important avenue to promote development, is their little evidence on concomitant industrial development in most developing countries? This chapter takes a look at the evidence on FDI and development and explores some of the causes for this ambiguity. The complexities of global value chains and networks have begun to trivialize the simplistic principle that increased MNE activity automatically implies a proportional increase in spillovers and linkages. Policies towards MNEs need to be closely linked and integrated with industrial policy. MNE activity needs to be evaluated by considering the kinds of externalities that are generated; whether and how domestic actors can internalize them, and building up absorptive capacities to achieve this. |
| Keywords: | MNEs, absorptive capabilities, motives, IDP, services, developing countries |
| JEL: | F23 O14 O19 |
| Date: | 2013 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:dgr:unumer:2013034&r=cwa |
| By: | Andrew C Worthington; Helen Higgs |
| Keywords: | wholesale spot electricity prices, generation mix, emission controls and taxation |
| JEL: | Q48 C33 D40 Q41 |
| Date: | 2013–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:gri:fpaper:finance:201306&r=cwa |
| By: | NAIKI Yoshiko |
| Abstract: | There have been very few World Trade Organization (WTO) dispute settlement cases based on the Agreement of the Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT Agreement). While the rulings of the <i>European Communities-Measures Affecting Asbestos and Products Containing Asbestos</i> and <i>European Communities-Trade Description of Sardines</i> are well-known, there were no rulings which addressed the core obligations of the TBT Agreement, namely Articles 2.1 and 2.2. The case of <i>United States - Measures Affecting the Production and Sale of Clove Cigarettes</i> was the first case which adjudicated the obligation under Article 2.1. Although this case also addressed other TBT issues that were worth noting, this paper focuses on the ruling concerning Article 2.1 that received most of the attention. The obligation under Article 2.1 has been often compared with that of GATT Article III:4, which contains the same obligation of "no less favourable treatment." This paper examines the relationship between Article 2.1 and GATT Article III:4 and considers to what extent the "less favourable treatment" obligation under each article overlaps. |
| Date: | 2013–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:eti:rpdpjp:13013&r=cwa |
| By: | Paul, Sohini |
| Abstract: | This paper examines whether urban Micro-Finance Institutions (MFIs) consider proxy/ hidden collateral in the absence of physical as well as social collateral to judge the creditworthiness of a borrower. Micro-finance institutes operating in urban slums adopt an individual lending mechanism in several cases since borrowers are not willing to bear joint liability due to the acute problem of migration. Therefore, such urban MFIs that offer individual loans become extra-cautious to minimise default risk. To be specific, we study whether an MFI considers ownership of a 10ftx10ft room in a slum as a hidden selection criterion in a loan programme. Room ownership, on the one hand, indicates stability in a particular location, but on the other hand, it infers income generation capability of an aspirant borrower. We use a primary survey database collected from an NGO, Navnirman Samaj Vikas Kendra that provides micro credit in four slums of north Mumbai in India. We find that the probability of getting selected in a micro credit programme becomes significantly higher if a loan applicant owns a room in a slum compared to one who lives in a rented room. MFIs appear to be more concerned about shielding themselves from default than fulfilling the broad goal of maximising social welfare by reaching the poorest of the poor. We present our study with the caveat that the results may not be generalizable, since they are based on a case study. |
| Keywords: | Micro-finance; Credit-worthiness; Financial Sustainability; Urban slums |
| JEL: | G20 G21 |
| Date: | 2013–05–16 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:48116&r=cwa |
| By: | Kambayashi, Ryo; Kato, Takao |
| Abstract: | This paper provides novel evidence on the long-term effect of the Great Recession on the quality of jobs, in particular whether the Great Recession results in the replacement of “good jobs” (characterized by high wage/benefit, job security, and opportunity for training and development) with “bad jobs” (characterized by the lack of such attributes). Unfortunately there is not yet sufficiently long data from the recent Great Recession that enable researchers to study fully its long-term consequences for the labor market structure. To this end, we examine Japan’s Lost Decade, the original Great Recession that occurred two decades ago. First, we find no evidence for a shift of male employment toward “bad jobs” during the Lost Decade. Second, for women we find a compositional change from self-employment to nonstandard employment which is, however, found to be a shift from “bad jobs” to “bad jobs” rather than “good jobs” to “bad jobs”. As such, our findings cast doubt on the popular narrative of the long-term negative effect on job quality of the Great Recession. However, for one particular group of Japanese workers-youth, we find compelling evidence in support of the popular narrative. Especially all progresses that young women made in enhancing their share of standard employment during Japan’s high growth decade in the 1980s are found to be entirely undone during the Lost Decade. The Great Recession affects the quantity of jobs and policy makers ought to pay immediate attention to such quantity effects. However, the Great Recession may also have more long-term structural effects on the quality of jobs, and such long-term effects may be heterogeneous, concentrating on a specific group of workers such as youth. |
| Keywords: | job quality, good jobs and bad jobs, the Great Recession, Lost Decade, Japan |
| JEL: | J63 J64 J41 |
| Date: | 2013–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hit:hitcei:2013-01&r=cwa |
| By: | JINJI Naoto; Xingyuan ZHANG |
| Abstract: | In this study, we investigate how the innovative performance of local firms in host countries affects the structure of foreign direct investment (FDI) by multinational enterprises (MNEs) using Japanese firm-level data and patent application data for host countries of Japanese FDI at the United States Patent and Trademark Office for the period from 1995 to 2006. The structure of FDI is measured by the shares of local transactions and transactions with the source country and a third country by foreign affiliates of Japanese MNEs. Our estimation results imply that innovation by local firms in the same and related industries in host countries in Asia and Europe strengthens forward and backward linkages. We also find that innovation in the host country encourages transactions with the source country when the former is technologically advanced. Finally, our findings suggest that, in Asia, the innovative performance of local firms contributes to the development of regional production networks. |
| Date: | 2013–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:eti:dpaper:13060&r=cwa |
| By: | Pushkar Maitra (Monash University); Subha Mani (Fordham University) |
| Abstract: | This paper estimates the short-and-medium-run effects of participating in a subsidized vocational training program aimed at improving labor market outcomes of women residing in low-income households in a developing country. We combine pre-intervention data with two rounds of post-intervention data from a field experiment to quantify the short-and-medium-run effects of the program. In the short-run, we find that program participants are significantly more likely to be employed, work additional hours, and earn more. These short-run impact estimates are all sustained in the medium-run. We also identify credit constraints, local access, and lack of proper child care support as important barriers to program participation and completion. We are able to rule out two alternative mechanisms -- signalling and change in behavior that can drive these findings. Finally, a simple cost-benefit analysis suggests that the program is highly cost effective. |
| Keywords: | Vocational training, Field Experiment, Panel data, India |
| JEL: | I21 J19 J24 O15 |
| Date: | 2013 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:frd:wpaper:dp2013-02&r=cwa |
| By: | Sonia, Akter; Syed Abul, Basher |
| Abstract: | This paper presents the first household-level study to examine the combined impacts of the global food and financial crises on household food security and economic well-being in a developing country. Using longitudinal survey data of 1,800 rural households from 12 districts of Bangladesh over the period 2007–2010, we estimated a three-stage hierarchical logit model to identify the key sources of household food insecurity. A difference-in-difference estimator was then employed to compare pre- and post-crises expenditure for those households who experienced acute food shortages and those who managed to avoid the worst impacts of the crises. On the basis of our results we conclude that: (1) the soaring food prices of 2007–2008 unequivocally aggravated food insecurity in the rural areas of Bangladesh in 2008; (2) there was some weak evidence to suggest that the global economic downturn, which followed the global food crisis, contributed towards worsening food insecurity in 2009; (3) the adverse impacts of these crises appeared to have faded over time due to labor and commodity market adjustments, regional economic growth, and domestic policy responses, leaving no profound, long-lasting impacts on households’ economic well-being; and (4) although the immediate adverse consequences of rising food prices were borne disproportionately by the poor and farming communities, the longer term consequences were distributed more evenly across the rich and poor and, in general, were favorable for the farming community. |
| Keywords: | Food security; Food price shocks; financial crises; Discrete choice modeling; Household survey data; Economic welfare; Bangladesh |
| JEL: | C25 I31 Q18 |
| Date: | 2013–06–27 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:47859&r=cwa |
| By: | Randall S. Jones; Myungkyoo Kim |
| Abstract: | The 2011 disaster and nuclear problems opened the door to a new energy policy, as they raised fundamental questions about the electricity system’s ability to prevent and respond to accidents. In particular, the system has had difficulty coping with the shortages caused by the accident and the suspension of operations of nuclear power plants. Addressing these problems requires creating a more competitive electricity sector by reducing the dominance of the ten regional monopolies through ownership unbundling of generation and transmission and by expanding the wholesale market. It is also important to increase interconnection capacity, while introducing real-time pricing. The reduced role of nuclear power following the Fukushima accident makes it necessary to accelerate the expansion of renewable energy, which requires setting a sufficiently high and consistent price for carbon. Finally, the government should ensure the independence of the new Nuclear Regulatory Agency and create an independent regulator for the electricity sector to promote competition. This Working Paper relates to the 2013 OECD Economic Survey of Japan (www.oecd.org/eco/surveys/japan)<P>Restructurer le secteur électrique et favoriser la croissance verte au Japon<BR>La catastrophe naturelle et nucléaire de 2011, parce qu’elle a posé des questions fondamentales concernant la capacité du système électrique d’éviter et de réagir à des accidents, a ouvert la voie à l’élaboration d’une nouvelle politique énergétique. Ce système notamment n’a pu sans mal gérer les pénuries d’électricité provoquées par l’accident et par la suspension de l’exploitation des centrales nucléaires. S’attaquer à ces faiblesses nécessite la création d’un secteur de l’électricité plus concurrentiel, en atténuant la position dominante des dix monopoles régionaux ; pour cela, il faut dissocier la production du transport et dynamiser le marché de gros. Également, il est important d’augmenter les capacités d’interconnexion, tout en introduisant la tarification en temps réel. L’énergie nucléaire ayant un rôle moins important depuis l’accident de Fukushima, le Japon doit accélérer le développement des énergies renouvelables, ce qui impose de fixer un prix suffisamment élevé et cohérent pour le carbone. Enfin, le gouvernement doit assurer l’indépendance de la nouvelle Autorité de sûreté nucléaire et créer une autorité de régulation indépendante pour le secteur de l’électricité afin de stimuler la concurrence. Ce Document de travail a trait à l’Étude économique de l’OCDE du Japon, 2013 (www.oecd.org/eco/etudes/japon). |
| Keywords: | renewable energy, energy efficiency, Japanese economy, emissions trading system, nuclear power, electricity sector, electricity shortages, ownership unbundling, wholesale electricity market, interconnection, real-time price, feed-in-tariffs, energy conservation, regional electricity monopolies, économie japonaise, système d’échange de droits d’émissions, énergies renouvelables, efficacité énergétique, énergies nucléaire, secteur de l’électricité, marché de l’électricité de gros, interconnexion, tarification en temps réel, tarifs d’achat garantis, monopoles régionaux de l’électricité |
| JEL: | Q40 Q41 Q42 Q48 |
| Date: | 2013–06–28 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:oec:ecoaaa:1069-en&r=cwa |
| By: | USHIRO Fusao |
| Abstract: | This paper examines the current realities and issues in developing a third sector in Japan on par with the government and corporate sectors by introducing and analyzing the findings of the second third-sector questionnaire survey (2012) which followed the first third-sector questionnaire survey (2010). Particular attention has been paid to the rapid rise in general incorporated associations and general incorporated foundations since their institution in 2008. Furthermore, the majority of these general associations/foundations have chosen to be non-profit organizations. |
| Date: | 2013–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:eti:rdpsjp:13047&r=cwa |
| By: | Llanto, Gilberto M.; Zen, Fauziah |
| Abstract: | This paper discusses governmental fiscal support for financing long-term infrastructure projects in ASEAN countries. More specifically, it discusses the role of guarantees and subsidies in promoting public-private partnership (PPP) projects. It draws on case studies of Philippine and Indonesian PPPs, and information from secondary sources to highlight the critical role of such fiscal support in making feasible the financing of long-term infrastructure projects that may be economically beneficial but commercially or financially unviable without such support. The paper points out the need for a strong fiscal position and analyzes the implications of guarantees and subsidies on fiscal management. An important insight is the need to secure budgets for long-term infrastructure projects, which may be done through a medium-term expenditure framework. Based on the analysis of Philippine and Indonesian case studies, it provides specific recommendations to improve the implementation of PPP projects. |
| Keywords: | infrastructure, subsidy, government guarantee, Philippines, public-private partnership (PPP), concessions, fiscal space, contingent liabilities, affermage, turnkey contracts, medium-term expenditure framework |
| Date: | 2013 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:phd:dpaper:dp_2013-08&r=cwa |
| By: | Mina, Christian D. |
| Abstract: | Persons with disability (PWDs) are among the vulnerable groups in the country that need utmost attention from the government. This is perhaps the reason why the institutional and legal environment has been made favorable to this particular group, especially in the area of employment. However, earlier reports note that the quality of employment of PWDs still needs improvement. This paper examines the employment profile of PWDs in the Philippines using the 2008 and 2010 disability surveys in selected cities of Metro Manila (urban) and Rosario, Batangas (rural), respectively. Key findings of this paper are as follows: (1) Proportion of employed among PWD respondents in the urban area is relatively higher than that in the rural area; (2) Roughly half of working PWDs are underemployed; (3) Employed PWDs in the urban area are dominated by the visually-impaired while the hearing-impaired has the highest proportion of employed in the rural area; (4) The leading occupation among PWDs in the urban area is masseur while farmer/farm worker/livestock and poultry raiser in the rural area, although many respondents in both areas are also engaged in entrepreneurial activities (e.g., managing a sari-sari store, e-load business, among others) and are working as helpers/utility workers or laborers; (5) The majority of employed respondents in both areas are considered as vulnerable workers--self-employed and unpaid family workers; (6) Some PWDs who are wage/salary workers are considered as informally employed as they are working as temporary workers without formal contract, seasonal workers, or hired on a daily basis; (7) Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA) suggests that being a member in a Disabled People`s Organization and being at least high school graduate strongly correlate with being employed; and (8) MCA also revealed that PWDs who are at least college graduates are more closely related to being officers/managers/supervisors, professionals, and technicians/associate professionals while those who are at most elementary graduates tend to be laborers/unskilled and agricultural workers. |
| Keywords: | education, Philippines, employment, labor force participation, Metro Manila, occupation, rural, Rosario, Batangas, source of personal income, class of worker, urban, Multiple Correspondence Analysis |
| Date: | 2013 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:phd:dpaper:dp_2013-13&r=cwa |
| By: | Thanabalasingam Vinayagathasan (National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies) |
| Abstract: | This paper attempts to identify the monetary policy indicator that better explains the Sri Lankan monetary policy transmission mechanism. This study also estimates how shocks stemming from foreign monetary policy and/or oil price affect domestic macroeconomic variables. To that end, we use a seven variable structural VAR model by utilizing monthly time series data from Sri Lanka covering the period from January 1978 to December 2011. Impulse response functions and variance decompositions are used to describe the relationships among variables. Our empirical findings suggest that the interest rate shocks play a significant and better role in explaining the movement of economic variables than monetary aggregate shocks or exchange rate shocks. Second, the targeting of reserve money is a better strategy for the Sri Lankan economy than a focus on narrow or broad money. Third, our findings clearly show that foreign monetary policy shocks and oil price shocks do not seem to affect the domestic economy. Finally, the inclusion of oil price in the SVAR model helped us overcome the puzzles that often appear in the existing literature in monetary economics. |
| Date: | 2013–07 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ngi:dpaper:13-13&r=cwa |
| By: | Degryse, Hans (BOFIT); Lu, Liping (BOFIT); Ongena, Steven (BOFIT) |
| Abstract: | The recent financial crisis has reopened the debate on the impact of informal and formal finance on firm growth in developing countries. Using unique survey data, we find that informal finance is associated with higher sales growth for small firms and lower sales growth for large firms. We identify a complementary effect between informal and formal finance for the sales growth of small firms, but not for large firms. Informal finance offers informational and monitoring advantages, while formal finance offers relatively inexpensive funds. Co-funding, i.e. the simultaneous use of formal and informal finance, is the optimal choice for small firms. |
| Keywords: | informal finance; formal finance; co-funding; growth |
| JEL: | G21 G32 P29 |
| Date: | 2013–06–18 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hhs:bofitp:2013_014&r=cwa |
| By: | Watto, Muhammad |
| Abstract: | We estimate the efficiency of groundwater use in cotton production in the Punjab province of Pakistan. We use a survey data of 189 cotton producers comprising 98 tube-well owners and 91 water buyers in order to get the differential impact of tube-well ownership on groundwater use efficiency. We use data envelopment analysis to compute the technical, scale, cost and allocative efficiencies for tube-well owners and water buyers relative to a meta-frontier and groupfrontiers. The DEA sub-vector and slack-based models are used to compute groundwater use efficiency. The results indicate low levels of technical inefficiencies with water buyers being more inefficient relative to tube-well owners. However, groundwater use inefficiency is more pronounced than the respective technical efficiency. The sub-vector and slack-based estimates are highly correlated suggesting the robustness of the results. The results on returns to scale indicate that the majority of cotton growers are operating at increasing returns to scale, suggesting that efficiency can be improved by expanding the scale of operation. We use a second-stage bootstrap truncated regression to investigate the factors that influence technical efficiency and groundwater use efficiency. We find that the level of education, seed quality and extension services have positive significant impacts on technical and groundwater use efficiency. We suggest that knowledge of crop water requirements and the use of improved crop varieties can play role in improving the efficiency of groundwater use. |
| Keywords: | Pakistan, groundwater use efficiency, groundwater markets, technical efficiency, DEA, sub-vector, slack-based model, meta-frontier, Crop Production/Industries, International Development, International Relations/Trade, Research Methods/ Statistical Methods, |
| Date: | 2013–02 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ags:aare13:152204&r=cwa |
| By: | Mathias Hoffmann; Toshihiro Okubo |
| Abstract: | Regional differences in banking integration determined how Japan’s Great Recession after 1990 spread across the country. We explain these differences with the emergence of silk reeling as the main export industry after Japan’s opening to trade in the 19th century. The silk-exporting prefectures developed a system of export finance centered on local, cooperative banks that preserved their dominant local position long after the decline of the silk industry. Our findings suggest that different pathways to financial development can lead to long-term differences in de facto financial integration, even if there are no formal barriers to capital mobility between regions. |
| Keywords: | financial development; financial integration; Japan; Great Recession; Lost Decade; banking integration; regional business cycles; transmission of financial shocks; misallocation of credit; trade credit; export finance; silk industry |
| JEL: | F15 F30 F40 G01 N15 N25 O16 |
| Date: | 2013–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:een:camaaa:2013-36&r=cwa |
| By: | David Atkin |
| Abstract: | Anthropologists have long documented substantial and persistent differences across social groups in the preferences and taboos for particular foods. One natural question to ask is whether such food cultures matter in an economic sense. In particular, can culture constrain caloric intake and contribute to malnutrition? To answer this question, I first document that inter-state migrants within India consume fewer calories per Rupee of food expenditure compared to their non-migrant neighbors, even for households with very low caloric intake. I then form a chain of evidence in support of an explanation based on culture: that migrants make nutritionally-suboptimal food choices due to cultural preferences for the traditional foods of their origin states. First, I focus on the preferences themselves and document that migrants bring their origin-state food preferences with them when they migrate. Second, I link together the findings on caloric intake and preferences by showing that the gap in caloric intake between locals and migrants is related to the suitability and intensity of the migrants' origin-state food preferences: the most adversely affected migrants (households in which both husband and wife migrated to a village where their origin-state preferences are unsuited to the local price vector) would consume 7 percent more calories if they possessed the same preferences as their neighbors. |
| JEL: | D12 I10 O10 Z10 |
| Date: | 2013–07 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:nbr:nberwo:19196&r=cwa |
| By: | Aldaba, Rafaelita M. |
| Abstract: | The paper examines the state of investment liberalization and facilitation in the Philippines and suggests policy measures to enable the country to comply with its ASEAN Economic Community commitments. Based on interviews and surveys, the results indicated that investment incentives, low tax rates and time/cost of starting a business are critical factors affecting firms` decision to invest in the Philippines. The respondents noted significant improvements in political stability and level of corruption. A great majority of the firms also indicated future expansion of their operations and the ASEAN market as a significant factor in their investment decision. In evaluating the quality, servicing, policy, and strategy of investment promotion agencies (IPAs), the Philippines obtained a quite respectable score of 71 percent. The firms rated government agencies` investment facilitation and promotion activities as satisfactory. They cited bureaucracy and slow processing of permits as most problematic issues affecting their operations. They also pointed out the lack of transparency in guidelines and procedures, corruption, and the nonuniformity of investment incentives given by the major IPAs. Meanwhile, according to IPAs, the most problematic procedures that investors face in establishing business are permits from local government units (LGUs), environmental compliance certificate from the DENR-Mines and Geosciences Bureau, and visa from the Bureau of Immigration. To reduce the gap between policy and implementation and boost the country`s competitiveness, the paper suggests the unification and centralization of the investment promotion and facilitation efforts by all IPAs under one agency. It is also necessary to strengthen the current efforts of the Philippine Investment Promotion Plan (PIPP) interagency committee to coordinate the various IPAs` actions and plans. To improve the operational environment and investment climate, IPAs should closely collaborate with national agencies and LGUs particularly in the automation and streamlining of business procedures. Currently, the DTI and the DILG are intensifying their efforts to improve the business permit and licensing system. PEZA`s experience in effectively streamlining its procedures is also worth emulating. To face the challenges and take advantage of the opportunities arising from AEC 2015, the reforms suggested above must be accompanied by substantial increases in infrastructure investment particularly in power and logistics to reduce the cost of doing business in the country. Modern and efficient air, land, and sea infrastructure should be built fast enough. A comprehensive review of the constitutional limitations on foreign equity particularly the 60-40 rule should also be pursued. |
| Keywords: | Philippines, investment facilitation, ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), promotion and liberalization, investment promotion agencies (IPAs) |
| Date: | 2013 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:phd:dpaper:dp_2013-03&r=cwa |
| By: | Markus Eberhardt; Zheng Wang; Zhihong Yu |
| Abstract: | This paper provides micro-level evidence that drug advertising regulations and inspections in China are used by local governments to discriminate against firms from outside the province. Furthermore, the degree of discrimination varies across firms in that drug manufacturers which have closer ties with rival provinces are more likely to be targeted. These findings demonstrate that giving provincial governments strong incentives to compete with each other may exacerbate the market distortions inherent in a partially reformed economy such as China. |
| Date: | 2013–04 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:not:notgep:13/04&r=cwa |
| By: | Wegener, Malcolm |
| Keywords: | Crop Production/Industries, International Relations/Trade, Resource /Energy Economics and Policy, |
| Date: | 2013–02 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ags:aare13:152189&r=cwa |
| By: | Aldaba, Rafaelita M. |
| Abstract: | The paper aims to review our trade liberalization policy and its contribution to the country`s industrial growth and performance. After more than twenty years of liberalization, the overall performance of the manufacturing industry has been weak, growth has been slow, and contribution to value added and employment has been limited. Total factor productivity growth declined from 1996 to 2006. The industrial structure has remained "hollow" or "missing" in the middle and medium enterprises have never seriously challenged the large entrenched incumbents. The linkages between SMEs and large enterprises have also remained limited. SMEs have continued to face competitiveness problems along with difficulties in finance and market access. Trade indicators show the heavy concentration of Philippine exports on three major products groups: electronics, garments and textiles, and auto parts. Within these major product groups, exports are highly concentrated in low value-added and labor-intensive products sectors. Our experience has shown that trade liberalization does not automatically lead to a competitive domestic market economy. Imports are effective in disciplining domestic manufacturing firms. However, to sustain the competitive gains derived from the presence of imports, the government has an important role to play particularly in creating and maintaining a competitive environment. The government needs to coordinate policies to implement continued liberalization in tandem with necessary support measures that will address the obstacles to the entry, exit, and growth of domestic firms, particularly small and medium enterprises. |
| Keywords: | trade liberalization, Philippines, Philippine manufacturing, strategic industrial policy |
| Date: | 2013 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:phd:dpaper:dp_2013-21&r=cwa |
| By: | Garnaut, Ross |
| Keywords: | International Development, International Relations/Trade, Resource /Energy Economics and Policy, |
| Date: | 2013–02 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ags:aare13:152187&r=cwa |
| By: | Sanjaya, Muhammad Ryan |
| Abstract: | Many conventional economic analyses assume that risk preference is taken as given and do not give much scrutiny on it. However, empirical studies show that risk preference is not random: shocks and predetermined characteristics can determine risk preference. This study tried to see if these potential determinants together affect risk aversion in Indonesia using 2007 micro data. The author found that there is limited evidence that shocks and predetermined characteristics can affect risk preference. There is a preliminary indication that risk preference was not only driven by the individual's wealth and demographic factors (that can be easily controlled), but also by the individual's time preference. -- |
| Keywords: | risk aversion,preference,Indonesia,microeconometrics |
| JEL: | O12 D81 |
| Date: | 2013 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:ifwedp:201333&r=cwa |
| By: | Kaivan Munshi; Mark Rosenzweig |
| Abstract: | This paper widens the scope of the emerging literature on economic networks by assessing the role of caste networks in Indian local politics. We test the hypothesis that these networks can discipline their members to overcome political commitment problems, enabling communities to select their most competent representatives, while at the same time ensuring that they honor the public goods preferences of their constituents. Using detailed data on local public goods at the street level and the characteristics of constituents and their elected representatives at the ward level over multiple terms, and exploiting the random system of reserving local council seats for caste groups, we find that caste discipline results in the election of representatives with superior observed characteristics and the provision of a significantly greater level of public goods. This improvement in political competence occurs without apparently diminishing leaders' responsiveness to the preferences of their constituents, although the constituency is narrowly defined by the sub-caste rather than the electorate as a whole. |
| JEL: | H11 H4 O12 O43 |
| Date: | 2013–07 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:nbr:nberwo:19197&r=cwa |
| By: | Raphaël Chiappini |
| Abstract: | This paper investigates the relationship between outward foreign direct investment (FDI) and both exports and imports from Japan. Using the Poisson pseudomaximum likelihood (PPML) estimator developed by Santos Silva and Tenreyro (2006) to deal with the problem of zero trade ows when estimating a gravity equation, we show that the complementary relationship between FDI and trade is overestimated when using the Ordinary Least Square (OLS) estimator. The PPML method also allows sectoral estimation of the relationship. We nd that whether outward FDI creates or replaces trade depends on the industry under scrutiny. Our results indicate that the complementary relationship between FDI and trade is dominant in the Japanese manufacturing sector, especially in electric machinery, transportation equipment, and precision machinery. We nd also that Japanese overseas investments substitute for exports in chemicals products, and for both exports and imports in general machinery. |
| Keywords: | Exports, imports, outward foreign direct investment (FDI), Poisson pseudo-maximum likelihood (PPML) |
| JEL: | C23 F14 F21 |
| Date: | 2013–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:gre:wpaper:2013-24&r=cwa |
| By: | Israel, Danilo C.; Medalla, Erlinda M.; Milo, Melanie S.; Aldaba, Rafaelita M.; Briones, Roehlano M.; Llanto, Gilberto M.; Rosellon, Maureen Ane D.; Galang, Ivory Myka R.; Navarro, Adoracion M.; Ledda, Veredigna; de Guzman, Reinier |
| Abstract: | As 2015 draws near, assessing ASEAN`s progress toward the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) defined by the AEC Blueprint is necessary and instructive. This paper constitutes the Mid-Term Review (MTR) of the AEC Blueprint for the Philippines. The Philippines Country Report presents the results of the surveys related to the MTR on areas including trade liberalization and facilitation, services and investment liberalization, labor mobility, and agriculture. In assessing the progress of implementation of the country`s commitments under the AEC, a scorecard mechanism is applied. The report also covers two case studies as well as discussions on the role of the private sector and SMEs, and concludes with recommendations to raise the implementation rate of the AEC measures in the country. Overall, the survey results demonstrate how the AEC and the AEC Blueprint could address some of the issues that have constrained private sector response to the opportunities provided by greater openness in the Philippines, particularly the complex and inefficient administrative processes and procedures, and lack of effective competition in key sectors of the economy. While the Philippines has demonstrated its commitment to the AEC and the AEC Blueprint, key measures still need to be realized, particularly those that relate to services liberalization, customs integration, and ratification of transport protocols and agreements. The analyses of the study have demonstrated the benefits of the accomplishment of AEC measures in the Philippines, particularly those that precisely addressed the key institutional weaknesses faced by the private sector. Further delays in implementation could be costly for the country. |
| Keywords: | labor mobility, Philippines, agriculture, investment facilitation, ASEAN economic integration, AEC scorecard, services liberalization, standards and conformance |
| Date: | 2013 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:phd:dpaper:dp_2013-01&r=cwa |
| By: | Richard V. Burkhauser (Department of Policy Analysis and Management, Cornell University; and Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research, The University of Melbourne); Markus H. Hahn (Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research, The University of Melbourne); Roger Wilkins (Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research, The University of Melbourne) |
| Abstract: | Atkinson, Piketty, and Saez (2011) survey an important new literature using income taxbased data to measure the share of income held by top income groups. But changes in tax legislation that expand the tax base to include income sources (e.g. capital gains, dividends, etc.) disproportionately held by these groups will conflate such an expansion with an increase in the share of income they hold. We provide a cautionary tale from Australia of how comprehensive tax reform legislation in 1985 substantially altered Australian top income series, especially those that do not separate taxable realized capital gains from other taxable income. |
| Keywords: | Top incomes, income inequality, personal income, tax-based data |
| JEL: | D3 H2 |
| Date: | 2013–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:iae:iaewps:wp2013n24&r=cwa |
| By: | Roberto Leon-Gonzalez (National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies); Thanabalasingam Vinayagathasan (National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies) |
| Abstract: | This paper investigates the determinants of growth in the Asian developing economies. We use Bayesian model averaging (BMA) in the context of a dynamic panel data growth regression to overcome the uncertainty over the choice of control variables. In addition, we use a Bayesian algorithm to analyze a large number of competing models. Among the explanatory variables, we include a non-linear function of inflation that allows for threshold effects. We use an unbalanced panel data set of 27 Asian developing countries over the period 1980–2009. Our empirical evidence on the determinants of growth suggests that an economy’s investment ratio and trade openness are positively correlated to growth, whereas government consumption expenditure is negatively correlated. Further, our empirical results indicate a substantial probability that inflation impedes economic growth when it exceeds 5.43%. We also find no evidence of conditional convergence or divergence. |
| Date: | 2013–07 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ngi:dpaper:13-12&r=cwa |
| By: | Ikumo Isono (Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia); Satoru Kumagai (Institute of Developing Economies, Japan External Trade Organization (IDEJETRO)) |
| Abstract: | Myanmar has entered a new era of all-round reforms. Donors and foreign investors are mainly interested in Yangon, while there has been a delay in the Dawei deep sea project, the Dawei Special Economic Zone project and the road connection to Thailand. The change in circumstances poses a question about whether the Dawei project is still needed in the era of a reforming Myanmar. Our geographical simulation analysis clearly shows that the Dawei project has significant additional benefit for the whole Mekong region and points out the importance of international cooperation. |
| Date: | 2013–05 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:era:wpaper:pb-2013-01&r=cwa |
| By: | John Gibson (University of Waikato); Riccardo Scarpa (University of Waikato); Halahingano Rohorua (University of Waikato) |
| Abstract: | Indoor air quality affects respiratory diseases, such as asthma, and can be altered by devices that lower dwelling humidity and raise temperature. Several countries have initiated schemes that subsidize devices such as heat pumps based on putative health benefits but the valuations of these devices by the affected populations remains unknown. We investigate preferences for devices that affect indoor air quality, dampness, and warmth, using a choice experiment with a sample of Pacific Islander immigrants in New Zealand. This is a high risk group for respiratory disease, who typically rent crowded and inadequately heated dwellings. Using both conditional logit and panel mixed logit models we find reasonably precise estimates of the willingness to pay for four improved heating and humidity control devices, which would cover the capital costs of two of the devices, and add up to about three-quarters of the cost of the other two devices. |
| Keywords: | respiratory health; indoor air-quality devices; choice experiments |
| Date: | 2013–06–30 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:wai:econwp:13/09&r=cwa |
| By: | Daigneault, A.; Brown, P. |
| Abstract: | Invasive species pose an enormous threat in the Pacific: not only do they strongly affect biodiversity, but they also potentially affect the economic, social, and cultural wellbeing of Pacific peoples. Invasive species can potentially be managed and their impacts can potentially be avoided, eliminated, or reduced. However, neither the costs nor the numerous benefits of management are well understood in the Pacific. Thus, we undertook cost-benefit analyses (CBAs) of managing five species that are well established on Viti Levu, Fiji: spathodea campanulata (African tulip tree), herpestus javanicus (small Asian mongoose), papuana uninodis (taro beetle), pycnonotus cafer (red-vented bulbul), and merremia peltata (merremia vine). These CBAs are informed by extensive survey data that record the incidence, management, and impacts of the five species in Fiji. We find that the most cost-effective management option varies by species, precluding a universal solution. Nevertheless, the benefits of management often exceed the costs of management by a wide margin, arguing for a more concerted effort to control the spread of invasive species in the Pacific. |
| Keywords: | invasive species, cost-benefit analysis, non-market valuation, Crop Production/Industries, Demand and Price Analysis, Land Economics/Use, |
| Date: | 2013–02 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ags:aare13:152140&r=cwa |
| By: | Andrew C Worthington |
| Keywords: | Financial literacy, financial literacy programs, Australia |
| JEL: | D89 I29 |
| Date: | 2013–05 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:gri:fpaper:finance:201305&r=cwa |
| By: | Ghislando, S; Manachotphong, W; Perego, VME |
| Date: | 2013–06–07 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:imp:wpaper:11200&r=cwa |
| By: | Honorati, Maddalena; McArdle, Thomas P |
| Abstract: | Training programs mainly address market failures related to lack of skills (technical, cognitive, non-cognitive). This paper conducts a comprehensive review of training programs effectiveness in developing countries. Based on relevant international experiences, the paper highlights key design features associated with program success as well as implementation challenges and discusses their policy implication. Success of training programs is deeply related with the content of the skills provided and how well they serve the local labor demand (demand-driven design) and with the presence of a sound governance structure for training providers and beneficiaries. In particular, the effectiveness of training programs for youth tends to be higher when a'comprehensive'approach is taken by combining different types of training with complementary support services. The ultimate goal is to inform new program design and improve the performance of current training programs. |
| Keywords: | Primary Education,Education For All,Access&Equity in Basic Education,ICT Policy and Strategies,Teaching and Learning |
| Date: | 2013–06–01 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:wbk:hdnspu:78980&r=cwa |
| By: | Yosuke Furukawa (Graduate School of Economics, Kyoto University); Hiroki Toyoda (Graduate School of Economics, Kyoto University) |
| Abstract: | This study presents evidence for the existence of job polarization in Japan, identifies its effects across four age cohorts, and shows its relationship to Japan's business cycles during 1984-2010. The findings indicate that middle-skilled occupations decreased most sharply among the youngest workers. Our examination of the relationship between occupational categories and the business cycles demonstrates that job polarization is cyclical rather than gradual. Particularly, only employment in middle-skilled occupations did not recover after recessions. This finding underlies Japan's jobless recovery. |
| Keywords: | Jobless recoveries, job polarization, business cycles |
| JEL: | E24 E32 J23 J24 |
| Date: | 2013–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:kyo:wpaper:874&r=cwa |
| By: | Randall S. Jones |
| Abstract: | The rapid expansion of education in Korea is exceptional and has played a key role in its economic development. Sustaining Korea’s growth potential in the face of demographic headwinds requires further improving the education system to boost productivity growth. One priority is to upgrade early childhood education and care (ECEC). Korea also needs to address the overemphasis on tertiary education, in part by improving vocational education, to reduce the mismatch problem that limits labour participation of youth. Tertiary education needs restructuring to improve quality. In addition, the large share of private spending in education increases the impact of socio-economic factors on educational outcomes. Education reforms are thus needed to promote inclusive growth, notably by: i) improving the access of low-income children to high-quality ECEC; ii) reducing reliance on private tutoring, notably at hagwons, by improving university admission procedures, expanding the quality and diversity of schools and upgrading vocational education; and iii) expanding loans to university students with repayment contingent on income after graduation. This Working Paper relates to the 2012 OECD Economic Survey of Korea (www.oecd.org/eco/surveys/Korea).<P>La réforme de l'enseignement en Corée<BR>L'expansion rapide de l'enseignement en Corée est exceptionnelle et elle a joué un rôle clé dans son développement économique. Maintenir le potentiel de croissance de la Corée face à l’obstacle démographique nécessite la poursuite de l’amélioration du système éducatif dans l’optique de stimuler la croissance de la productivité. Une priorité est d’améliorer l’éducation et l’accueil des jeunes enfants (EAJE). La Corée doit aussi s’attaquer au problème de la survalorisation de l'enseignement supérieur, notamment sur le front de l’enseignement professionnel, et remédier ainsi à l’inadéquation entre l’offre et la demande de travail qui bride le taux d’activité des jeunes. L’enseignement supérieur doit être restructuré pour gagner en qualité. De plus, le pourcentage élevé des dépenses privées d’éducation accroît l’impact des facteurs socio-économiques sur les résultats des Coréens en termes d’instruction. Des réformes de l’éducation sont ainsi nécessaires pour promouvoir une croissance solidaire, en particulier : i) améliorer l’accès des enfants de familles défavorisées à des services d’EAJE de qualité ; ii) moins recourir aux cours de soutien privés, en particulier dans le cadre des hagwons, en faisant évoluer les procédures d’admission à l’université, en rehaussant la qualité et la diversité des écoles et en améliorant l’enseignement professionnel ; et iii) accorder davantage de prêts aux étudiants dont le remboursement est fonction du revenu perçu après l’obtention du diplôme. Ce Document de travail se rapporte à l’Étude économique de l’OCDE de la Corée, 2012 (www.oecd.org/eco/etudes/corée). |
| Keywords: | Korea, child care, tertiary education, secondary schools, vocational education, tuition fees, primary schools, universities, ECEC, hagwons, student loans, Korean education, kindergarten, pre-primary education, Meister schools, after-school tutoring, Corée, enseignement supérieur, éducation préscolaire, école primaire, EAJE, hagwons, enseignement professionnel, enseignement coréen, services de garde d’enfants, maternelle, école secondaire, écoles Meister, cours de soutien privés extrascolaires, droits d’inscription |
| JEL: | I21 I22 I23 I24 |
| Date: | 2013–06–27 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:oec:ecoaaa:1067-en&r=cwa |
| By: | Siar, Sheila V. |
| Abstract: | Traditional immigration countries such as United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand give preference to migrants with higher education, skills, and professional training that they can transfer to their countries. However, it is not unusual for migrant professionals, especially those from less developed countries, to experience 'deskilling' or occupational downward mobility. Though admitted as professionals based on the immigration policies of the destination countries, many of them are relegated to lower status and lower paying jobs, owing to the nonrecognition of their foreign credentials and the bias for education acquired in the host country or in academic institutions in developed countries, local experience, cultural know-how, and English proficiency. Their foreign credentials and skills often fail to provide the expected occupational rewards and professional development gains which have been a significant part of their motivation to migrate overseas, especially to more developed countries. Deskilling may be viewed in several ways: as a host country`s way of filling up labor scarcities in the secondary market by exploiting cheap enclave labor, as a transitional phase for migrants to adjust to the 'standards' of the host country, or as a form of institutionalized discrimination. This paper reviews the deskilling phenomenon to highlight its deleterious effects on migrants` welfare. Some theoretical explanations of deskilling are also examined. Examples of deskilling experiences of different migrant groups show that it is a complex phenomenon that demonstrates the interplay of race, ethnicity, and gender. |
| Keywords: | skilled migration, migrant labor, deskilling, job devaluation, brain waste |
| Date: | 2013 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:phd:dpaper:dp_2013-30&r=cwa |
| By: | Windle, Jill; Rolfe, John |
| Abstract: | Assessing the value of ecosystem services in a particular area helps provide information about the economic benefits these services provide to the community. In many situations, to avoid the full cost of primary data collection, value estimates may be applied from secondary sources in a process known as benefit transfer. However, in many countries, including Australia, the stock of economic value estimates for ecosystem services is limited and this restricts the application of benefit transfer. In this paper, the non-market values of three ecosystems (native vegetation, waterways, and wetlands) in a coastal peri-urban town are assessed using benefit transfer. Ecosystems in a peri-urban environment are generally fragmented and in a degraded condition, but can have very high values within the residential urban area. Three main limiting factors are identified. First, there is a general paucity of relevant source study estimates. Second, there is a need for scale adjustment factors so that source study estimates which are often assessed at a catchment or regional level can be adjusted to a small local council jurisdiction. Third, there is a need for some level of scope adjustment to account for the very high values of very small patch sizes, with low ecological value, within an urban area. |
| Keywords: | benefit transfer, peri-urban valuation, scope, scale, native vegetation, wetlands, waterways, Land Economics/Use, Research and Development/Tech Change/Emerging Technologies, Resource /Energy Economics and Policy, |
| Date: | 2013–02 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ags:aare13:152183&r=cwa |
| By: | Doshi, Amar; Pascoe, Sean |
| Abstract: | In mid-2010, an impact assessment was undertaken to ascertain the non-market value of coral reefs to scuba divers in Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia. A travel cost method was employed and it was found that divers had a consumer surplus of about US$590 per dive. However, given the sample consisted of a much larger proportion of international visitors (84%), an analysis was undertaken to ascertain the effects of the sample heterogeneity on the economic value estimates. The results indicated that the pooled results were biased towards the international sub-sample. Domestic visitors had a much lower consumer surplus of about US$130 per dive. In addition, the split-sampling suggested that the assumption of endogenous stratification using count data models was not appropriate for the international sub-sample. Applying the split-sampling based to the three separate countries illustrated further large disparities in consumer surplus, with Thailand the highest at US1200 per dive and Malaysia the lowest at US$260 per dive. This proves consequential in determining the appropriate user fee structure given the different resulting effects on returning divers based on their origins and diving destinations. |
| Keywords: | Travel cost method, coral diving, sample heterogeneity, Demand and Price Analysis, Environmental Economics and Policy, Research and Development/Tech Change/Emerging Technologies, |
| Date: | 2013–02 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ags:aare13:152146&r=cwa |
| By: | Meryem Deygun (University of Leicester School of Management, UK); Mohamed Shaban (University of Leicester School of Management, UK); Tom Weyman-Jones (School of Business and Economics, Loughborough University, UK) |
| Abstract: | This paper suggests an operational method for implementing the theoretical relative prot dierence test for intensity of competition due to Boone (2008). We use polynomial quantile regressions for which integral areas and their standard errors can easily be computed and compared using Wald tests. An empirical example is presented which applies the test to a panel data sample of banks in dierent emerging economies. The results indicate that the trend towards more intense competition amongst emerging economy banks continued during the period of the nancial upheaval in 2005-2008, and that India and China among others were leading this process. |
| Date: | 2013–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:lbo:lbowps:2013_05&r=cwa |
| By: | Cook, David C.; Fraser, Rob W.; Weinert, Andrew S. |
| Abstract: | The principal chemicals used by Western Australia’s horticultural industries for field control and post-harvest disinfestation procedures for Mediterranean fruit fly are soon to be withdrawn from use due to public health concerns. When this occurs, the necessary switch to alternative control methods such as bait sprays and intensive fruit fly trapping will involve additional producer costs. Given these costs, this paper evaluates the option of eradicating Mediterranean fruit fly from the State and discusses possible cost sharing arrangements between government and industry that could be reached for mutual benefit. |
| Keywords: | Biosecurity, Mediterranean fruit fly, pest management, Crop Production/Industries, Environmental Economics and Policy, International Relations/Trade, |
| Date: | 2013–02 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ags:aare13:152142&r=cwa |
| By: | Aziz, Omar; Carroll, Nick; Creedy, John |
| Abstract: | This paper presents a social accounting model to examine the entrants, exits and transitions of individuals among a wide range of benefit categories in New Zealand. Transition rates and flows are estimated separately for periods before the global financial crisis (GFC) and periods following the crisis. The data were obtained from the Benefit Dynamics Dataset maintained by the Ministry of Social Development. The model is used to examine, using simulations, the implications for the time profile of changes in the stock of benefit recipients under a range of counterfactual situations. It is suggested that the model can provide a useful tool for policy analysis. |
| Keywords: | Welfare benefits, Social accounting, |
| Date: | 2013 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:vuw:vuwcpf:2840&r=cwa |
| By: | Lee, Peter; Cassells, Sue; Holland, John |
| Abstract: | National parks and protected areas form the basis of global conservation initiatives and provide a raft of benefits in the form of various consumptive and non-consumptive uses. However, it is extremely difficult to express these benefits in monetary terms. The lack of economic values for these protected areas often results in sub-optimal conservation outcomes. Non-market valuation techniques can be used to estimate monetary values for these key environmental assets. This research applied the choice modelling approach to assess the value of non-market goods and services associated with Abel Tasman National Park in New Zealand. A standard multinomial logit model was used to analyse visitor preferences and derive welfare measures. The results indicate park users were willing to pay an actual cash value for the ecological and recreational attributes of the park. These monetary values can be used to guide future development, inform resource allocation decisions and ensure adequate conservation financing. |
| Keywords: | Choice experiments, stated preference, willing to pay, Consumer/Household Economics, Environmental Economics and Policy, International Relations/Trade, Research and Development/Tech Change/Emerging Technologies, |
| Date: | 2013–02 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ags:aare13:152163&r=cwa |
| By: | Llanto, Gilberto M.; Kelekar, Uma |
| Abstract: | It has only been in the recent years that developing countries are increasingly decentralizing the provision of health care to their local governments. This paper explores some key issues related to health decentralization in the Philippines identified in literature and in course of interviews with country officials working in the health care area. Issues of planning and budgeting of health plans, revenue and expenditure assignments in a decentralized health system are discussed. In addition, issues specific to the determinants of local government health spending are closely examined. One of the key questions closely examined is whether there are any incentives for local governments to compete through spending on health in a decentralized system. The question of spatial competition is addressed through an empirical analysis that attempts to test the presence of horizontal and vertical fiscal interactions among local governments in the Philippines using local government health expenditures data. While there is a consistent positive interaction among municipalities in health spending, the interaction of municipalities with provinces is positive but weakly significant. The positive fiscal interaction among local governments is explained as a result of potential competition for health care inputs. |
| Keywords: | Philippines, local health care, health decentralization, fiscal competition, horizontal fiscal interaction, vertical fiscal interaction, Local Government Code of 1991 |
| Date: | 2013 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:phd:dpaper:dp_2013-20&r=cwa |
| By: | Creedy, John; Gemmell, Norman |
| Abstract: | This paper examines the extent to which projected aggregate tax revenue changes, association with population ageing over the next 50 years, can be expected to finance expected increases in social welfare expenditures. Projections from two separate models, dealing with social expenditures and income tax and GST revenue, are used. The results suggest that the modest projected required increase in the overall average tax rate over the next 50 years can be achieved automatically by adjusting income tax thresholds using an index of prices rather than wages. Based on evidence about the New Zealand tax system over the last 50 years, comparisons of average and marginal tax rates suggest that such an increase may be feasible and affordable. The paper discusses the range of considerations involved in deciding if this automatic increase in the aggregate average tax rate, via real fiscal drag of personal income taxes, is desirable compared with alternative fiscal policy changes. |
| Keywords: | Taxation, Aging population, Public spending, Fiscal policy, |
| Date: | 2013 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:vuw:vuwcpf:2820&r=cwa |
| By: | Briones, Roehlano M. |
| Abstract: | Agriculture confronts several challenges over the decade, i.e., meeting burgeoning food requirements with limited farm land, and balancing the need to import with the provision of livelihoods. The current policy regime leans heavily toward import substitution, with supply side interventions to boost production, combined with protectionism toward sensitive products (particularly rice). The study conducts a scenario analysis to examine the likely evolution of Philippine agriculture to 2020, as well as the implications of pursuing alternative policies. It finds that, under a business-as-usual scenario: Agricultural growth continues with dramatic increases for rice production in the offing. Likewise per capita consumption of most food items would continue increasing. Import growth is curtailed, with substantial price increases for meat products and rice. The alternative scenario involves liberalization and re-allocation of expenditure support toward export-oriented agricultural subsectors. Under this scenario, imports of rice, yellow maize, and poultry increase, with faster increases in per capita consumption than under business-as-usual, and lower retail prices. While consumers gain, producers of import-competing products face harsher competition and cut back on their production. Deepest cuts are expected for rice. Export-oriented commodities experience a production and export boost, with brightest prospects for other crops, banana, aquaculture products, and even coconut. This study recommends the outward-oriented policy, with concomitant measures to compensate losers, ease the burden of adjustment, and facilitate the transition toward a more diversified and dynamic agricultural sector. |
| Keywords: | Philippines, agricultural development, scenario analysis, trade policy, expenditure support |
| Date: | 2013 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:phd:dpaper:dp_2013-14&r=cwa |
| By: | Christophe Charlier; Sarah Guillou |
| Abstract: | The China - Raw Materials dispute recently arbitrated by the WTO opposed China as defendant to the US and the EU as claimants, on the somewhat unusual issue of export restrictions. For the claimants, Chinese export restrictions on various raw materials of which the country is a major producer create shortages in foreign markets. This scarcity does not prevail in the Chinese market and the price in the foreign markets increases, providing a cost advantage to the Chinese industries using these raw materials. China defends export limitations using Article XX of the GATT 1994 on possible exceptions to the prohibition of quantitative restrictions to conserve natural resources. This paper offers a theoretical analysis of the dispute with the help of a model of a monopoly extracting a non-renewable resource and selling it on both the domestic and foreign markets using Fischer and Laxminarayan (2004)'s framework. The theoretical results focus on the eects of imposing an export quota on quantities, prices and ecacy, and are used to comment on the claims of the parties and on the ndings of the Panel and Appellate Body. Given the crucial importance of demand elasticities in this theoretical understanding of the con ict, the empirical part of the paper provides estimates of import demand elasticity of the claimants as well as of China { for each product concerned in the case, dened at the HS6 level. The empirical results show that among the products concerned in the dispute, two groups can be dierentiated depending on China's export position. When China is a major or rst exporter, there is no evident sign of the distortionary eect of an export quota. When China is a weak exporter, but a strong producer and consumer, there is evidence coherent with the model according to which China is imposing a quota export restriction that is inefficient. |
| Keywords: | Export restrictions, WTO, exhaustible natural resources, price discrimination, Article XX of the GATT 1994. |
| JEL: | F13 F18 F51 K33 |
| Date: | 2013–04 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:gre:wpaper:2013-07&r=cwa |
| By: | Tahu Kukutai (University of Waikato); Shefali Pawar (University of Waikato) |
| Abstract: | This report provides a comprehensive demographic and socio-economic profile of the Maori population in Australia using data from the 2011 Australia Census of Population and Housing. The purpose is to provide an evidence base with which to inform future policy approaches with respect to Maori in Australia. It focuses on five key areas: Population size and composition; Identity and culture; Year of arrival and citizenship; Education and work; Lone parenting and unpaid childcare. Comparisons are undertaken with Maori in the 2006 Australia Census, as well as with two reference groups: the total Australia population and migrant non-Maori New Zealanders. Where appropriate, we also distinguish Maori migrants born in New Zealand and Maori born in Australia. This captures important differences within the Maori population in Australia that have been under-examined in previous studies. There are significant differences between New Zealand and Australian-born Maori across a range of indicators. Policy approaches and research need to be attuned to this internal variation and the differing circumstances and needs. The initial analysis in this report suggest that Australian-born Maori have higher education levels than their New Zealand-born counterparts living in Australia and are more engaged in higher education in Australia. However, the youthful age structure of the second generation precludes a comprehensive comparison with respect to labour market characteristics and outcomes. While many Maori migrants appear to be living a relatively ‘good life’, earning comparatively high incomes in lower-skilled jobs, theirs is an inherently vulnerable situation given their low levels of education and limited access to social security. |
| Keywords: | Australia, New Zealand, migrants, Maori, diaspora |
| JEL: | J15 J61 F22 |
| Date: | 2013–06–25 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:wai:nidaea:wp-3&r=cwa |
| By: | Saumitra Jha |
| Abstract: | I examine how the historical legacies of inter-ethnic complementarity and competition influence contemporary electoral competition and its effects on patterns of ethnic violence. Using local comparisons within Gujarat, a single Indian state known for its non-violent local traditions yet also for widespread ethnic pogroms in 2002, I provide evidence that while towns with close votes in the preceding state elections do predict an increased incidence of ethnic riots, these effects are diminished in medieval port towns that historically enjoyed exogenous inter-ethnic complementarities. Furthermore, unlike other towns where pre-riot electoral competitiveness coincided with historic inter-ethnic competition and where the ruling party reaped well-targeted electoral dividends from the riots, medieval port constituencies exhibited a relative vote swing of more than seven percentage points against that party. These rendered medieval port constituencies marginal constituencies in future elections, which also saw less ethnic violence. I interpret these results as consistent with the existence of a fundamentally conditional, yet magnifying interaction between electoral competition and local institutions in generating incentives for ethnic violence. Where marginal electoral constituencies coincide with or reflect pre-existing inter-ethnic economic competition, politicians have both enhanced local and state-wide incentives to foster ethnic mobilization and violence. On the other hand, when the focus of electoral competition shifts to constituencies enjoying complementary norms and organizations supporting local inter-ethnic tolerance, this can reduce state-wide incentives for ethnic violence. |
| JEL: | N0 N3 N35 N4 N45 N9 N95 O1 O12 R1 Z1 Z12 Z13 |
| Date: | 2013–07 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:nbr:nberwo:19203&r=cwa |
| By: | Ward, Patrick S.; Ortega, David L.; Spielman, David J.; Singh, Vartika; Magnan, Nicholas |
| Abstract: | Recent efforts to develop rice cultivars with drought-tolerance (DT) traits have resulted in the release of several varieties that demonstrate significant resiliency to drought stresses. In this paper, we use discrete choice experiments to examine farmers’ preferences for DT traits and explore heterogeneity in these preferences using primary data collected in rural Bihar, India. We evaluate farmers’ preference for yield performance under different weather scenarios, duration, seed reusability and seeding rate. Our results show that farmers value the reduction in yield variability offered by DT cultivars, but are willing to pay even more for cultivars that offer yield advantages even under normal conditions. Rice farmers were found to prefer short duration cultivars, which provide an alternative pathway by which farmers can manage drought risk. Finally, we find that farmers highly value seed-reusability, and would, other things equal, demand a discount on hybrid seeds that do not have this characteristic. |
| Keywords: | choice experiments, drought tolerance, rice, India, Agribusiness, Institutional and Behavioral Economics, International Development, International Relations/Trade, Research and Development/Tech Change/Emerging Technologies, Q12, Q16, O33, |
| Date: | 2013–06–03 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ags:aaea13:150786&r=cwa |
| By: | Alexandra Spicer; Olena Stavrunova; Susan Thorp |
| Abstract: | Households in many developed economies now reach retirement with lump sums of financial wealth accumulated through defined contribution retirement plans. Managing wealth from individual accumulations and public provision is critical to retirement welfare. We study the dynamics of retirement wealth and asset allocation using the three wealth waves of the Household Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) panel survey. We find significant influences of ageing on asset holdings with older households preferring less risk and more liquidity, while maintaining ownership of the family home. In terms of absolute changes in wealth the average retired household accumulated in 2002-06 and decumulated 2006-10 in line with financial market trends. More diversified households did better. The probability of retired households depleting non-housing. Finally, in contrast to the US, the overall effect of health shocks on the wealth of retired Australian households is minimal. |
| Keywords: | Retirement wealth; Life-cycle saving; Public pension; Portfolio choice |
| JEL: | D91 E21 G11 |
| Date: | 2013–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:een:camaaa:2013-40&r=cwa |
| By: | Komarek, Adam |
| Keywords: | Crop Production/Industries, Demand and Price Analysis, International Relations/Trade, |
| Date: | 2013–02 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ags:aare13:152197&r=cwa |
| By: | Anita Prakash (Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia) |
| Abstract: | Myanmar has opened up to democratic and economic reforms. Bureaucracy is one of the chosen agents of reforms, both political and economic. Bureaucracy faces the difficult task to reform itself for optimum delivery of reforms. Structural changes are required in transforming the bureaucracy into a development agent. Capacity building of the bureaucracy, without compromising its independence, is required for the effective implementation of reforms. A restructured and informed bureaucracy should be Myanmar’s preferred agent of change. |
| Date: | 2013–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:era:wpaper:pb-2013-02&r=cwa |
| By: | Edwards, Brooke; Sluggett, Robert; East, Miriam |
| Abstract: | To achieve water quality targets, management practice change in the sugar cane industry has been a large focus for natural resource management initiatives such as Reef Plan and Reef Rescue. Considerable public funds have been targeted at landholders to change on-ground management practices. However, the economic implications for landholders are not well understood. To further inform future policy development of the upcoming Reef Water Quality Protection Plan 3 and Reef Rescue 2, the economic costs and benefits to landholders are required. This research used a case study approach to consider the economic implications of improved soil management through an extended fallow period in the Mackay-Whitsunday region. The results demonstrate the complexity of creating effective policy design for adoption of improved management practices for water quality in a semi perennial farming system. |
| Keywords: | Water quality, sugar cane, Mackay Whitsunday, extended fallow, Crop Production/Industries, Environmental Economics and Policy, Research and Development/Tech Change/Emerging Technologies, Resource /Energy Economics and Policy, |
| Date: | 2013–02 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ags:aare13:152148&r=cwa |
| By: | Mary M. Kritz; Douglas T. Gurak; Min-Ah Lee |
| Abstract: | Immigrants have a markedly higher likelihood of migrating internally if they live in new estinations. This paper looks at why that pattern occurs and at how immigrants’ out-migration to new versus traditional destinations responds to their labor market economic and industrial structure, nativity origins and concentration, geographic region, and 1995 labor market type. Confidential data from the 2000 and 1990 decennial censuses are used for the analysis. Metropolitan and non-metropolitan areas are categorized into 741 local labor markets and classified as new or traditional based on their nativity concentrations of immigrants from the largest Asian, Caribbean and Latin American origins. The analysis showed that immigrants were less likely to migrate to new destinations if they lived in areas of higher nativity concentration, foreign-born population growth, and wages but more likely to make that move if they were professionals, agricultural or blue collar workers, highly educated, fluent in English, and lived in other new destinations. While most immigrants are more likely to migrate to new rather than traditional destinations that outcome differs sharply for immigrants from different origins and for some immigrants, particularly those from the Caribbean, the dispersal process to new destinations has barely started. |
| Date: | 2013–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:cen:wpaper:13-32&r=cwa |
| By: | Hertzler, Greg; Sanderson, Todd; Capon, Tim; Hayman, Peter; Kingwell, Ross |
| Abstract: | Australian crop and livestock farmers face uncertain climate change and variability and a challenge for adaptation decisions. These decisions can be (1) adjustments to practices and technologies, (2) changes to production systems, or (3) transformation of industries, for example, by relocation to new geographical areas. Adjustments to existing practices are easy to make, relative to changes to production systems or transformations at the industry level. Transformations require new investments and infrastructure and can leave assets stranded. These transformations can be partially or wholly irreversible and hysteresis effects can make switching difficult and mistakes costly to reverse. Real Options offers a framework to structure thinking and analysis of these difficult choices. This paper generalises and extends the principles of real options to capture the expected time until transformative thresholds are crossed. An application to South Australian wheat dominant agriculture is explored. |
| Keywords: | Australian agriculture, climate change, real options, Agricultural and Food Policy, Environmental Economics and Policy, International Relations/Trade, |
| Date: | 2013–02 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ags:aare13:152196&r=cwa |
| By: | Thomas J. Holmes; Ellen R. McGrattan; Edward C. Prescott |
| Abstract: | Despite the recent rapid development and greater openness of China’s economy, FDI flows between China and technologically advanced countries are relatively small in both directions. We assess global capital flows in light of China’s quid pro quo policy of exchanging market access for transfers of technology capital—accumulated know-how such as research and development (R&D) that can be used in multiple production locations. We first provide empirical evidence of this policy and then incorporate it into a multicountry dynamic general equilibrium model. This extension leads to a significantly better fit of the model to data. We also find large welfare gains for China—and welfare losses for its FDI partners—from quid pro quo. |
| Keywords: | China |
| Date: | 2013 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fip:fedmsr:488&r=cwa |
| By: | Crean, Jason; Milham, Nick; Singh, Rajinder |
| Abstract: | The burning of rice stubbles is widely practised in rice based farming systems in north-west India (Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh). The practice leads to substantial air pollution and associated adverse health effects, increased greenhouse emissions, loss of soil organic matter and lower soil moisture levels. The recently developed ‘Happy Seeder’ (HS) technology, a tractor powered machine capable of direct drilling wheat in standing rice stubbles, provides an alternative to burning. However, the adoption of this technology has been limited and burning of rice stubbles remains widespread. The Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) funded research to assess possible policy responses to encourage alternatives to stubble burning. In this paper we use a whole farm model to evaluate potential policy incentives that might lead to the wider adoption. We assess farm level responses to alternative settings and consider the merits of different forms of intervention. |
| Keywords: | Stubble burning, environmental pollution, technology, policy, rice, Crop Production/Industries, Environmental Economics and Policy, International Relations/Trade, |
| Date: | 2013–02 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ags:aare13:152178&r=cwa |
| By: | Randall S. Jones; Satoshi Urasawa |
| Abstract: | Labour market reform to improve growth prospects and reduce inequality is a top priority in the face of rapid population ageing and a dualistic labour market. Sustaining output growth requires policies to mitigate the impact of rapid population ageing by increasing labour inputs from under-employed segments of the population. In particular, female labour participation should be encouraged by better work-life balance and increasing the availability of highquality, affordable childcare. More flexible employment and wage systems would increase the age at which older workers leave firms. For young people, improved vocational education at the secondary and tertiary levels would help overcome the labour mismatch and the overemphasis on tertiary education. Labour market dualism creates serious equity concerns, as non-regular workers face significantly lower wages, precarious jobs, less coverage by social security and less training. A comprehensive approach is required to break down dualism, including reduced employment protection for regular workers, alongside improved social insurance coverage and expanded training for non-regular workers. This Working Paper relates to the 2012 OECD Economic Survey of Korea (www.oecd.org/eco/surveys/Korea).<P>Réformer le marché du travail pour stimuler la croissance et améliorer la cohésion sociale en Corée<BR>La réforme du marché du travail pour améliorer les perspectives de croissance et réduire les inégalités est une priorité absolue face au vieillissement rapide de la population et à un marché du travail dual. Pour soutenir la croissance de la production, les autorités coréennes doivent prendre des mesures pour compenser les effets du vieillissement de la population, en renforçant l’apport de travail des catégories de population sous-employés. Il convient notamment de renforcer le taux d’activité des femmes, en leur assurant des conditions d’emploi permettant de mieux concilier vie professionnelle et vie privée et en améliorant l’offre de services de garde de qualité et à moindre coût. Une plus grande flexibilité des systèmes d’emploi et de rémunération permettrait aux travailleurs âgés de poursuivre leur activité professionnelle. Quant aux jeunes, l’amélioration de la formation professionnelle dans le secondaire et le supérieur contribuerait à résoudre les problèmes d’adéquation entre offre et demande de compétences et de survalorisation de l'enseignement supérieur. Le dualisme engendre de graves problèmes d’équité, car les travailleurs temporaires perçoivent des salaires nettement inférieurs, occupent des emplois précaires, bénéficient d’une couverture sociale plus limitée et d’un moindre accès à la formation. Il faut adopter une approche globale pour briser le dualisme, notamment en réduisant la protection de l’emploi pour les travailleurs réguliers, en améliorant la couverture sociale pour les travailleurs non réguliers et en développant les formations offertes à ces travailleurs. Ce Document de travail se rapporte à l’Étude économique de l’OCDE de la Corée, 2012 (www.oecd.org/eco/etudes/japon). |
| Keywords: | Korea, dualism, employment protection, labour force participation rates, female employment, vocational training, non-regular workers, part-time workers, older workers, work-life balance, labour market, fertility rate, Korean economy, dispatched workers, fixed-term contracts, Corée, taux de participation, travailleurs âgés, dualisme, protection de l'emploi, travailleurs non réguliers, formation professionnelle, travailleurs à temps partiel, activité des femmes, taux de fécondité, équilibre entre travail et vie familiale, travailleurs intérimaires, contrats à durée déterminée, marchés du travail |
| JEL: | J11 J3 J5 J7 |
| Date: | 2013–06–27 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:oec:ecoaaa:1068-en&r=cwa |
| By: | Mullen, John; Keogh, Mick |
| Abstract: | The objective of this paper is to review likely trends in key drivers of productivity with a view to suggesting the rate of productivity growth that is likely to be required to maintain the competitiveness of Australian agriculture both within the Australian economy and relative to the agricultural sectors of other economies. The paper also canvasses prospect for achieving this level of productivity performance over the period to 2030.Growth in agricultural productivity has slowed over the last two decades and a significant proportion of this slowdown in growth can be attributed to the stagnation in public investment in agricultural R&D since the late 1970s. The prospect that rate of growth of TFP could stay at less than 1.0% rather than recover to a long term rate of 2.0% is obviously quite concerning for the future competitiveness of agriculture both domestically and internationally. It would seem that to maintain TFP growth in the 2.0 – 2.5% per year range, investment in agricultural R&D has to be returned to a level of 3.0% of agriculture’s GVP (or 5% of GDP), a major challenge for government and industry. |
| Keywords: | Productivity, R&D investment, Competitiveness, Production Economics, Productivity Analysis, Research and Development/Tech Change/Emerging Technologies, Research Methods/ Statistical Methods, |
| Date: | 2013–02 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ags:aare13:152170&r=cwa |
| By: | Thomas J. Holmes; Ellen R. McGrattan; Edward C. Prescott |
| Abstract: | Despite the recent rapid development and greater openness of China’s economy, FDI flows between China and technologically advanced countries are relatively small in both directions. We assess global capital flows in light of China’s quid pro quo policy of exchanging market access for transfers of technology capital—accumulated know-how such as research and development (R&D) that can be used in multiple production locations. We first provide empirical evidence of this policy and then incorporate it into a multicountry dynamic general equilibrium model. This extension leads to a significantly better fit of the model to data. We also find large welfare gains for China—and welfare losses for its FDI partners—from quid pro quo. |
| Keywords: | China |
| Date: | 2013 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fip:fedmsr:487&r=cwa |
| By: | Crost , Benjamin (University of Colorado Denver); Felter, Joseph (Stanford University); Mansour, Hani (University of Colorado Denver); Rees, Daniel I. (University of Colorado Denver) |
| Abstract: | Previous studies have documented a positive association between election fraud and the intensity of civil conflict. It is not clear, however, whether this association is causal or due to unobserved institutional or cultural factors. This paper examines the relationship between election fraud and post-election violence in the 2007 Philippine mayoral elections. Using the density test developed by McCrary (2008), we find evidence that incumbents were able to win tightly contested elections through fraud. In addition, we show that narrow incumbent victories were associated with an increase in post-election casualties, which is consistent with the hypothesis that election fraud causes conflict. We conduct several robustness tests and find no evidence that incumbent victories increased violence for reasons unrelated to fraud. |
| Keywords: | election fraud, conflict |
| JEL: | D72 D73 D74 |
| Date: | 2013–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:iza:izadps:dp7469&r=cwa |
| By: | Nedumaran, S. |
| Abstract: | This paper assesses the tradeoff between non-farm income and on-farm soil and water conservation investment by smallholder farmers in the semi-arid tropics of India using a dynamic bioeconomic model. This modeling approach allows understanding the complex interaction and feedback between household economic decision making and sustainability of natural resource base. A dynamic crop-livestock integrated bio-economic has been developed and calibrated for a Semi-Arid Tropics (SAT) watershed village in India where integrated watershed development program was implemented. The village level model is used to assess the impact of improved access to off-farm employment created by watershed development program on household welfare, land degradation and Soil and Water Conservation (SWC) labour used on-farm to reduce run-off and soil erosion. The simulation results revealed that improved non-farm employment opportunities in the village increases household welfare but reduces the households’ incentive to use labour for conservation leading to higher levels of soil erosion and rapid land degradation in the watershed. This indicates that returns to labour are higher in non-farm than on-farm employment opportunities in the village. This appears to be no win-win benefits from improving the access to non-farm income in SAT rainfed farming villages. Complementary policies are required to protect the natural resource base. |
| Keywords: | Land degradation, Soil and Water conservation, non-farm income, Bioeconomic Model, Environmental Economics and Policy, Farm Management, International Development, International Relations/Trade, Research and Development/Tech Change/Emerging Technologies, |
| Date: | 2013–02 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ags:aare13:152171&r=cwa |
| By: | Thomas J. Holmes; Ellen R. McGrattan; Edward C. Prescott |
| Abstract: | Despite the recent rapid development and greater openness of China’s economy, FDI flows between China and technologically advanced countries are relatively small in both directions. We assess global capital flows in light of China’s quid pro quo policy of exchanging market access for transfers of technology capital—accumulated know-how such as research and development (R&D) that can be used in multiple production locations. We first provide empirical evidence of this policy and then incorporate it into a multicountry dynamic general equilibrium model. This extension leads to a significantly better fit of the model to data. We also find large welfare gains for China—and welfare losses for its FDI partners—from quid pro quo. |
| Keywords: | China |
| Date: | 2013 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fip:fedmsr:486&r=cwa |
| By: | Mu, Ren (Texas A&M University); de Brauw, Alan (International Food Policy Research Institute) |
| Abstract: | The unprecedented large scale rural-to-urban migration in China has left many rural children living apart from their parents. In this study, we examine the impact of parental migration on the nutritional status of young children in rural areas. We use the interaction terms between wage growth in provincial capital cities and initial village migrant networks as instrumental variables to account for migration selection. Our results show that parental migration has no significant impact on the height of children, but it improves their weight. We provide suggestive evidence that the improvement in weight may be achieved through increased access to tap water in migrant households. Concerns about the sustainability of the impact on weight are raised in the conclusions. |
| Keywords: | migration, children, nutrition, rural China, child nutrition |
| JEL: | I1 J6 O1 |
| Date: | 2013–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:iza:izadps:dp7466&r=cwa |
| By: | Tabuga, Aubrey D. |
| Abstract: | The Philippines is at par with developed economies in terms of creating and passing laws that protect and uphold the rights of, and mainstream persons with disability (PWDs) into the society. However, pioneering surveys on the condition of PWDs reveal that they rarely take advantage of the privileges provided for by the law because of various constraints they face, and the lack of implementation and enforcement of these laws, among others. An empirical analysis of the participation of PWDs in discount privileges shows that lack of awareness is a major problem and that many PWDs have not been issued proof of identification for them to be eligible to avail of these privileges. These aspects are more problematic in relatively poorer localities than in more affluent ones. Moreover, despite awareness and possession of identification, many PWDs are not able to participate given their special circumstances; many of them have low self-esteem, are unemployed and immobile. |
| Keywords: | Philippines, disability, participation, persons with disability (PWDs), Bivariate Probit, biprobit, discount privileges |
| Date: | 2013 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:phd:dpaper:dp_2013-07&r=cwa |
| By: | Velarde, Orlee; Pede, Valerien |
| Abstract: | This study focuses on the pattern between investment in chemical inputs such as fertilizer, pesticides and herbicides and technical efficiency of farm households in Laguna, Philippines. Using a one‐stage maximum likelihood estimation procedure, the stochastic production frontier model was estimated simultaneously with the determinants of efficiency. Results show that farmers with a low technical efficiency score have a high investment share in chemical inputs. Farmers who invested more in chemical inputs relative to other variable inputs attained the same or even lower output and were less efficient than those farmers who invested less. The result shows that farmers who invested wisely in chemical inputs can encourage farmers to apply chemical inputs more optimally. |
| Keywords: | Agricultural Management, Agricultural Productivity, Farm Household, Fertilizer Use, Rice, Crop Production/Industries, Environmental Economics and Policy, Research and Development/Tech Change/Emerging Technologies, Q12, |
| Date: | 2013–02 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ags:aare13:152203&r=cwa |
| By: | S. Quimbo; X. Javier (School of Economics, University of the Philippines Diliman) |
| Abstract: | Using data from the 2008 National Demographic and Health Survey, we ask whether women's economic empowerment -defined alternatively as having the ability to decide on (i) daily needs, (ii) major purchases, and (iii) spending own income - protects women against domestic violence. Using a simple model of choice of conflict resolution technology among spouses, we find evidence that economic empowerment protects women in a non-linear way. Low and high levels of empowerment reduce the likelihood of women experiencing domestic violence, possibly reflecting traditional gender roles in Philippine society. |
| Keywords: | Economic empowerment; domestic violence; Philippines |
| JEL: | J12 J16 |
| Date: | 2013–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:phs:dpaper:201305&r=cwa |
| By: | Arceo-Gomez, Eva O.; Campos-Vázquez, Raymundo M. |
| Abstract: | In Mexico, as in most Latin American countries with indigenous populations, it is commonly believed that European phenotypes are preferred to mestizo or indigenous phenotypes. However, it is hard to test for such racial biases in the labor market using official statistics since race can only be inferred from native language. Moreover, employers may think that married females have lower productivity, and hence they may be more reluctant to hire them. We are interested in testing both hypotheses through a field experiment in the labor market. The experiment consisted on sending fictitious curriculums (CVs) responding to job advertisements with randomized information of the applicants. The CVs included photographs representing three distinct phenotypes: Caucasian, mestizo and indigenous. We also randomly vary marital status across gender and phenotype. Hence, our test consists on finding whether there are significant differences in the callback rates. We find that females have 40 percent more callbacks than males. We also find that indigenous looking females are discriminated against, but the effect is not present for males. Interestingly, married females are penalized in the labor market and this penalty is higher for indigenous-looking women. We did not find an effect of marital status on males. |
| Keywords: | Discrimination; Gender; Race; Marriage; Labor market; Mexico; Hiring; Correspondence study. |
| JEL: | J12 J15 J16 J7 J71 J83 O54 |
| Date: | 2013–06–30 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:48000&r=cwa |
| By: | Tabuga, Aubrey D. |
| Abstract: | The Philippines had laid down the groundwork for improving the welfare of persons with disability (PWDs) two decades ago when it enacted the Magna Carta for Persons with Disability. Several other policies have been formulated since then to ensure that PWDs can have the chance to live the way they so desire. However, recent surveys reveal that despite this, PWDs rarely benefit from these legislations and other programs that have been developed for their advancement. There is a multitude of interplaying factors that constrain them from benefiting from such efforts and these have to be addressed first. This paper discusses the current situation of PWDs in terms of awareness and participation with the objective of identifying the various constraints that they face. |
| Keywords: | Philippines, disability, persons with disability (PWDs), survey, visual impairment, blind, mobility impairment, deaf persons |
| Date: | 2013 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:phd:dpaper:dp_2013-11&r=cwa |
| By: | Morrison, Mark; Duncan, Roderick; Parton, Kevin; Sherley, Chris |
| Abstract: | Previous research has demonstrated that religious persuasion can have an impact on environmental attitudes, however less research of this kind has focused on the relationship between religious persuasion and climate change attitudes. Using a survey of 1,927 Australians we examined links between membership of five religious groupings and climate change attitudes, as well as membership of climate change household segments that differ in their acceptance of human induced climate change and the need for policy responses. Differences were found across religious groups in terms of their belief in human induced climate change, consensus among scientists, their own efficacy and the need for policy responses. Using ordinal regression, some of these differences were shown to be due to sociodemographic factors, knowledge, environmental attitude or political conservatism. However, significant effects due to religious persuasion remained, and they range from medium to large in size. Options for responding to these effects are discussed. |
| Keywords: | religion, climate change, segmentation, political support, Environmental Economics and Policy, Institutional and Behavioral Economics, International Relations/Trade, |
| Date: | 2013–02 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ags:aare13:152147&r=cwa |
| By: | Martine AUDIBERT; Yong HE; Jacky MATHONNAT (Centre d'Etudes et de Recherches sur le Développement International) |
| Abstract: | This study aims at testing the theoretical issue according to which multinomial logit (MNL) would give lower performance than a mixed multinomial logit (MMNL) in the presence of heterogeneity. To do so, we construct two samples of patients surveyed within the same regions in rural China, but of an interval of 18 years, with a difference in preference heterogeneity due to income growth and population aging. With the 1989-1993 sample, both models have predicted price effects; however with the 2004-2006 sample, unlike MMNL, MNL failed to predict price effect. The explanation is that the impact of price on choice became more heterogeneous in the later than the former sample, thus heterogeneity makes a difference between MNL and MMNL. The absence of meaningful divergences of distance effects between the two models can also be explained by the evolution of heterogeneity in distance preferences over the period. The coefficients of price and distances with MMNL are higher than with MNL, indicating stronger price and distance effects in MMNL estimations. Another advantage of MMNL is the possibility to measure the extent of heterogeneity. The findings suggest caution when interpreting estimation results with MNL if heterogeneity is deemed important. |
| Keywords: | multinomial and mixed logit model, preference heterogeneity, healthcare choice, Chinese rural households |
| JEL: | D1 C5 I1 |
| Date: | 2013 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:cdi:wpaper:1449&r=cwa |
| By: | TOMIURA Eiichi; ITO Banri; MUKUNOKI Hiroshi; WAKASUGI Ryuhei; KUWAHATA Hiroyuki |
| Abstract: | Protectionism prevails in the real world in spite of the strong support for free trade by economists. To gather information on trade policy preferences, we conduct a survey on approximately 10,000 individuals: a 1/10,000 microcosm of Japan. Descriptive results from the survey are summarized as follows: (a) Various individual characteristics, including not only occupation and industry but also income, education, age, gender, and foreign attachments, are related with trade policy preference. (b) Preference of import liberalization is generally correlated with the same individual's preference of other international economic policies, though some discrepancies are observed. (c) Behavioral factors, such as risk aversion, are partly related with policy preferences. |
| Date: | 2013–07 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:eti:rdpsjp:13049&r=cwa |
| By: | MENG Jianjun |
| Abstract: | The greatest feature of the Chinese economy since the launch of its reform and open-door policies is that its economic resources, including human resources, goods, and capital, have become truly liquid nationwide under a market economy for the first time in the history of Chinese economic development. This process of becoming liquid has transformed China from a traditional or planned economy into a market economy, and has provided the driving force for the reallocation of new economic resources.<br />This paper examines the economic development and interregional migration in China using the migration statistics in the latest (sixth) national population census, conducted in 2010. More specifically, it analyzes regional distribution and migration trends in recent years, and highlights their characteristics by examining the population migration in three levels: cities, towns, and villages. The paper then attempts to examine the relationships between the various factors of the interregional migration and economic development in each region, and the process and mechanism for reallocating economic resources in China under a market economy. |
| Date: | 2013–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:eti:rdpsjp:13048&r=cwa |
| By: | Michael P. Cameron (University of Waikato); Patrick Barrett (University of Waikato); Bob Stewardson (University of Waikato) |
| Abstract: | The importance of social media for election campaigning has received a lot of attention recently. Using data from the 2011 New Zealand General Election and the size of candidates’ social media networks on Facebook and Twitter, we investigate whether social media is associated with election votes and probability of election success. Overall, our results suggest that there is a statistically significant relationship between the size of online social networks and election voting and election results. However, the size of the effect is small and it appears that social media presence will therefore only make a difference in closely contested elections. |
| Keywords: | social media; elections; voting; New Zealand |
| JEL: | D72 L82 |
| Date: | 2013–05–31 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:wai:econwp:13/08&r=cwa |
| By: | Orbeta, Aniceto Jr. C.; Gonzales, Kathrina G. |
| Abstract: | The study presents a summary of the six-country study on managing international labor migration in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The countries are grouped into sending (Cambodia, Indonesia, Philippines) and receiving (Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand). The objective was to share international migration management issues from the perspective of a sending or a receiving country. The country research teams were asked to identify and study a specific migration management issue that is deemed current and reflective of the primary migration management experience of the country. For sending countries, the Cambodia research team studied the high frequency cross-border crossings into Thailand that is dominated by irregular migrants. The Indonesian research team looked at the role of local governments in migration management as the country embarked into substantial decentralization process. The Philippine research team looked at the management of massive deployment flows spanning thirty years with special attention to the most vulnerable group – the household service workers. For receiving countries, the Malaysian research team looked at their experience in the continuing running battle with irregular migrants. The Singaporean research team looked at the close interaction between the needs of the economy for migrant workers and their desire not to be too dependent on them. The Thai research team described the experience at the crossroad of being both a receiving and still a sending country. The studies have highlighted seven important themes on international labor migration management in ASEAN, namely: (a) the importance of integrating international migration into national and regional development efforts; (b) the importance of both bilateral and multilateral agreements; (c) the importance of recognizing differences in labor market policies in sending and receiving countries in designing protection for migrant workers; (d) the need to consider general administrative capacities in designing migration regulatory efforts; (e) the importance of involving subnational bodies in migration management; (f) the need to broaden cooperation in handling irregular migration; and (g) the recognition that the protection envisioned by the state need not be the one "desired" by the migrant, hence, the need to check often to find out the effectiveness of protection measures. |
| Keywords: | ASEAN, Philippines, international labor migration |
| Date: | 2013 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:phd:dpaper:dp_2013-26&r=cwa |
| By: | Xing, Yuqing (Asian Development Bank Institute); Pradhananga, Manisha (Asian Development Bank Institute) |
| Abstract: | The global financial crisis and the recent growth slowdown in the People’s Republic of China (PRC) have led to questions about the sustainability of the PRC’s growth. The commonly used argument is that the PRC is too dependent on external demand and that it needs to rebalance its economy toward domestic consumption. However, conventional measures of external demand—share of net exports and exports as a share of gross domestic product (GDP)—are biased and do not accurately measure the contribution of external demand to GDP growth. In this paper, the authors propose two measures that provide a more accurate estimate of the vulnerability of the PRC economy to external shocks, in the form of sudden drops in exports and foreign direct investment (FDI). Based on their findings, the authors conclude that the PRC economy remains highly dependent on external demand in the form of exports and FDI, and rebalancing the economy toward domestic demand has not yet been achieved. |
| Keywords: | prc economy; growth; external demand; gdp accounting |
| JEL: | E01 F43 |
| Date: | 2013–07–01 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ris:adbiwp:0427&r=cwa |
| By: | Gunes Kamber; Chris McDonald; Gael Price (Reserve Bank of New Zealand) |
| Abstract: | In early 2013 New Zealand suffered its worst drought in decades. Using several new aggregate climate indicators and a newly-developed model, we estimate the economic impact of the drought. Annual real GDP in 2013 could be around 0.6 per cent lower than it would otherwise have been. |
| Date: | 2013–06 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:nzb:nzbans:2013/02&r=cwa |