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Technology Import and Industrial Employment: Evidence from Developing Countries

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  • Arup Mitra

Abstract

. This paper based on panel data across countries examines the possible effect of the imported technology on labour absorption in the industrial sector, after controlling for real wage rate and GDP per capita. Findings tend to suggest a negative relationship between the two. Technical efficiency index derived on the basis of the stochastic frontier function framework is also negatively affected by the import of technology. Without enhancing the knowledge relating to the mechanisms of exploiting the new technology acquired from abroad, a mere increase in import of technology would mean rising unutilized capacity. And this could be due to the poor skill base of the available human capital. Investment in human capital in terms of skill formation, up‐gradation, and training on the one hand and technological advancement to suit the internal labour market conditions are the two important policy conclusions for reviving the role of industry as the engine of pro‐poor growth.

Suggested Citation

  • Arup Mitra, 2009. "Technology Import and Industrial Employment: Evidence from Developing Countries," LABOUR, CEIS, vol. 23(4), pages 697-718, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:labour:v:23:y:2009:i:4:p:697-718
    DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-9914.2009.00461.x
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Arup Mitra & Amit Jha, 2015. "Innovation and employment: a firm level study of Indian industries," Eurasian Business Review, Springer;Eurasia Business and Economics Society, vol. 5(1), pages 45-71, June.
    2. Ugur, Mehmet & Mitra, Arup, 2017. "Technology Adoption and Employment in Less Developed Countries: A Mixed-Method Systematic Review," World Development, Elsevier, vol. 96(C), pages 1-18.
    3. Mitra, Arup,, 2013. "Can industry be the key to pro-poor growth? : An exploratory analysis for India," ILO Working Papers 994843463402676, International Labour Organization.
    4. Ugur, Mehmet & Mitra, Arup, 2014. "Effects of innovation on employment in low-income countries: A mixed-method systematic review," MPRA Paper 58214, University Library of Munich, Germany, revised 27 Aug 2014.
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