This paper argues that the application of the `2% rule' to the case of Eastern Germany, which implies convergence in three decades or more, is overly pessimistic. First, it ignores discrete improvements in initial conditions related to the transition, which have been significant to date. Because labour productivity in manufacturing exhibits wide sectoral dispersion, structural change is likely to increase aggregate productivity further. Second, convergence is also driven by physical and human capital mobility, which in contrast to labour mobility appears to be high in Eastern Germany. Finally, an unusually high rate of physical investment in Eastern Germany will accelerate convergence.
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Paper provided by C.E.P.R. Discussion Papers in its series CEPR Discussion Papers with number
863.
Find related papers by JEL classification: F15 - International Economics - - Trade - - - Economic Integration F20 - International Economics - - International Factor Movements and International Business - - - General O40 - Economic Development, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Growth and Aggregate Productivity - - - General
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