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Estimating causal effects of BRI infrastructure projects based on the synthetic control method

Author

Listed:
  • Yuan Li

    (Shandong University)

  • Martin Kleimann

    (FernUniversität in Hagen)

  • Hans-Jörg Schmerer

    (FernUniversität in Hagen)

Abstract

This paper studies regional treatment effects of infrastructure projects on employment and transport volumes by combining quantitative econometric methods with qualitative case studies. The quantitative approach we use is the synthetic control method, which allows for the analysis of causal effects on particular treatment groups. The regions of interest in our study are Duisburg and Piraeus. Both quantitative and qualitative evidence reveal that the impact on maritime transportation in Piraeus is very significant. While the quantitative evidence shows a rather modest effect on employment before 2016, the qualitative evidence suggests a more significant effect in recent years. We interpret this as the postponed effects from infrastructure provision on various outcome variables. Moreover, we find that rail transport does not crowd out local road transport.

Suggested Citation

  • Yuan Li & Martin Kleimann & Hans-Jörg Schmerer, 2021. "Estimating causal effects of BRI infrastructure projects based on the synthetic control method," Asia Europe Journal, Springer, vol. 19(1), pages 103-129, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:asiaeu:v:19:y:2021:i:1:d:10.1007_s10308-021-00621-7
    DOI: 10.1007/s10308-021-00621-7
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Dina Azhgaliyeva, 2021. "Economic impacts of transport and energy infrastructure connecting Asia and Europe: an introductory article for the special issue," Asia Europe Journal, Springer, vol. 19(1), pages 1-4, December.
    2. Zihao Ma & Jiahong Guo & Duanyang Xu & Shixiong Cao, 2025. "Towards common development through China’s Belt and Road Initiative," International Economics and Economic Policy, Springer, vol. 22(1), pages 1-20, February.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Belt and road initiative; Infrastructure; Development;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • O52 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economywide Country Studies - - - Europe
    • O53 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economywide Country Studies - - - Asia including Middle East
    • F00 - International Economics - - General - - - General

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