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What You Export Matters

Author

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  • Hausmann, Ricardo

    (Harvard U)

  • Hwang, Jason
  • Rodrik, Dani

Abstract

When local cost discovery generates knowledge spillovers, specialization patterns become partly indeterminate and the mix of goods that a country produces may have important implications for economic growth. We demonstrate this proposition formally and adduce some empirical support for it. We construct an index of the "income level of a country's exports," document its properties, and show that it predicts subsequent economic growth. [Jointly published as Center for International Development Working Paper No. 123 and KSG Faculty Research Working Paper Series RWP05-063.]

Suggested Citation

  • Hausmann, Ricardo & Hwang, Jason & Rodrik, Dani, 2005. "What You Export Matters," Working Paper Series rwp05-063, Harvard University, John F. Kennedy School of Government.
    • Handle: RePEc:ecl:harjfk:rwp05-063
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    File URL: https://research.hks.harvard.edu/publications/workingpapers/citation.aspx?PubId=3302&type=WPN
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • F1 - International Economics - - Trade
    • O4 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Growth and Aggregate Productivity

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