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The Flying Geese pattern of development in the ASEAN5: analysis and implications

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  • Sistac, Eliott

Abstract

In the four decades following 1960, the Southeast Asian economies of Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines (ASEAN5) grew faster than almost any other grouping of countries. This growth was marked by significant transformation of their industrial structures. First in Singapore and the Philippines, then in Thailand and Malaysia and lastly in Indonesia. This staggered pattern of industrialisation suggests a differentiated examination of each country’s industrial trajectory – a task this dissertation undertakes by exploring the Flying Geese (FG) model of economic development. The first aim of this study was to verify the applicability of the FG pattern in ASEAN5. To this end, the Revealed Symmetric Comparative Advantage (RSCA) index of ASEAN5 in low, medium and high technology manufactures is analysed to assess shifts in comparative advantages from 1964 to 1999. This is complemented by an analysis of FDI flows, for a comprehensive examination of the FG pattern in ASEAN5. The results of this analysis confirm the presence of an FG pattern of development among Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, but not the Philippines. The second aim of this study was to scrutinise the implications of the FG pattern of development in shaping the economic landscapes of ASEAN5. Three impacts, FDI-led growth, co-operation initiatives and poverty reduction, are considered within larger debates on the links between globalisation and economic development. The analysis reveals that the ASEAN5’s record of development under the FG pattern has been mixed, challenging some of the narratives around globalisation.

Suggested Citation

  • Sistac, Eliott, 2025. "The Flying Geese pattern of development in the ASEAN5: analysis and implications," Economic History Working Papers 127147, London School of Economics and Political Science, Department of Economic History.
    • Handle: RePEc:ehl:wpaper:127147
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    JEL classification:

    • N15 - Economic History - - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics; Industrial Structure; Growth; Fluctuations - - - Asia including Middle East

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