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Ricardian selection

Author

Listed:
  • Andrea Finicelli

    (Bank of Italy)

  • Patrizio Pagano

    (Bank of Italy)

  • Massimo Sbracia

    (Bank of Italy)

Abstract

We analyze the foundations of the relationship between trade and total factor productivity (TFP) in the Ricardian model. Under general assumptions about the autarky distributions of industry productivities, trade openness raises TFP. This is due to the selection effect of international competition � driven by comparative advantages � which makes "some" high- and "many" low-productivity industries exit the market. We derive a model-based measure of this effect that requires only production and trade data. In a sample of 41 countries, we find that Ricardian selection raised manufacturing TFP by 11% above the autarky level in 2005 (as against 6% in 1985), with a neat positive time trend and large cross-country differences.

Suggested Citation

  • Andrea Finicelli & Patrizio Pagano & Massimo Sbracia, 2009. "Ricardian selection," Temi di discussione (Economic working papers) 728, Bank of Italy, Economic Research and International Relations Area.
    • Handle: RePEc:bdi:wptemi:td_728_09
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    selection effect; Eaton-Kortum model; international competition;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • F10 - International Economics - - Trade - - - General
    • D24 - Microeconomics - - Production and Organizations - - - Production; Cost; Capital; Capital, Total Factor, and Multifactor Productivity; Capacity
    • O40 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Growth and Aggregate Productivity - - - General

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