The paper develops a general equilibrium model of migration, assimilation and trade, using a random matching framework of culture and trade. The market equilibrium and the social plannerÍs solution are contrasted and policy implications are given. The model predicts that the presence of immigrants who do not assimilate into the mainstream culture is economically inefficient, but whether such migration occurs depends on the underlying parameters. Because of the endogeneity of the migration decision, care must be taken to select the optimal policy instruments. In particular, subsidizing assimilation or auctioning immigration permits do not achieve the first best. Instead, a mix of selective immigration, border control and aid to the source country can be used to promote efficiency.
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Length: 32 pages Date of creation: 01 Apr 2001 Date of revision: Handle: RePEc:boc:bocoec:507
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Find related papers by JEL classification: D62 - Microeconomics - - Welfare Economics - - - Externalities F22 - International Economics - - International Factor Movements and International Business - - - International Migration Z10 - Other Special Topics - - Cultural Economics - - - General
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