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Enhancing the competitiveness of EU regions: A Comparative analysis of Local Regulatory Environments

Author

Listed:
  • Tommaso Rooms

    (World Bank)

Abstract

Local regulations and implementation of national laws constitute a deciding factor in creating an investment climate conducive to economic growth. In the European Union (EU) context, local differences are a hurdle to such growth and jeopardize regional economic convergence. This article analyzes an original subnational dataset from the World Bank that reveals regional differences in business regulations and their enforcement across 16 EU member states. The paper aims to offer insights for policymakers seeking to reduce bureaucratic inefficiencies and improve local business environments. The analysis is based on data collected using the World Bank’s Doing Business methodology between 2017 and 2022. By taking stock of such data, the article also provides a benchmark for assessing the contributions of new and upcoming assessments of the EU subnational business environment that are currently being conducted through the World Bank’s Business Ready methodology, which has replaced and improved upon Doing Business.

Suggested Citation

  • Tommaso Rooms, 2024. "Enhancing the competitiveness of EU regions: A Comparative analysis of Local Regulatory Environments," Regional Economy, , vol. 8(Q3), pages 4-14.
    • Handle: RePEc:atk:issues:q32024:10199
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. International Finance Corporation & World Bank & Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency, 2013. "Good Practices for Construction Regulation and Enforcement Reform : Guidelines for Reformers," World Bank Publications - Reports 16612, The World Bank Group.
    2. Norman V. Loayza & Luis Servén, 2010. "Business Regulation and Economic Performance," World Bank Publications - Books, The World Bank Group, number 2554, April.
    3. John H Dunning, 1980. "Towards an Eclectic Theory of International Production: Some Empirical Tests," Journal of International Business Studies, Palgrave Macmillan;Academy of International Business, vol. 11(1), pages 9-31, March.
    4. World Bank, "undated". "Doing Business in the European Union 2020," World Bank Publications - Reports 33650, The World Bank Group.
    5. Miriam Bruhn & David McKenzie, 2014. "Entry Regulation and the Formalization of Microenterprises in Developing Countries," The World Bank Research Observer, World Bank, vol. 29(2), pages 186-201.
    6. World Bank Group, "undated". "Doing Business in the European Union 2018," World Bank Publications - Reports 30295, The World Bank Group.
    7. repec:wbk:wbpubs:30295 is not listed on IDEAS
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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • F15 - International Economics - - Trade - - - Economic Integration
    • R58 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - Regional Government Analysis - - - Regional Development Planning and Policy
    • L51 - Industrial Organization - - Regulation and Industrial Policy - - - Economics of Regulation
    • R11 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - General Regional Economics - - - Regional Economic Activity: Growth, Development, Environmental Issues, and Changes

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