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Structural change and the Spanish productivity paradox

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  • Gabriel Brondino

    (Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore)

  • Miguel Ángel Casaú-Guirao

    (Autonomous University of Madrid)

Abstract

This paper analyzes the countercyclical nature of productivity in Spain from 1995 to 2018, focusing on the role of structural changes and the manufacturing sector’s contribution. Using the subsystems approach, we employ total labor productivity (TLP) as an alternative productivity indicator. Unlike conventional measures, TLP incorporates all inputs and intersectoral dependencies, providing a more comprehensive perspective on productivity dynamics. Our findings reveal that Spain's aggregate productivity paradox is driven by the expansion and contraction of low-productivity sectors, which contributed negatively to productivity during periods of economic growth and positively during recessions due to significant job losses. Additionally, the deceleration of manufacturing productivity is attributed to extensive outsourcing to less productive sectors. Manufacturing does not exhibit countercyclical productivity trends, and its productivity growth has slowed since the Great Recession. This analysis offers valuable insights into the Spanish economy’s productive specialization and productivity evolution, with implications for broader economic development processes.

Suggested Citation

  • Gabriel Brondino & Miguel Ángel Casaú-Guirao, 2025. "Structural change and the Spanish productivity paradox," Economia Politica: Journal of Analytical and Institutional Economics, Springer;Fondazione Edison, vol. 42(3), pages 677-702, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:epolit:v:42:y:2025:i:3:d:10.1007_s40888-025-00378-x
    DOI: 10.1007/s40888-025-00378-x
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    JEL classification:

    • O47 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Growth and Aggregate Productivity - - - Empirical Studies of Economic Growth; Aggregate Productivity; Cross-Country Output Convergence
    • P16 - Political Economy and Comparative Economic Systems - - Capitalist Economies - - - Capitalist Institutions; Welfare State
    • L6 - Industrial Organization - - Industry Studies: Manufacturing

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