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The demand for, and consequences of, formalization among informal firms in Sri Lanka

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  • Suresh De Mel
  • David McKenzie
  • Christopher Woodruff

Abstract

We conduct a field experiment in Sri Lanka providing informal firms incentives to formalize. Information about the registration process and reimbursement of direct costs has no effect. Payments equivalent to one-half to one month (alternatively, 2 months) of the median firm's profits leads to registration of around one-fifth (alternatively, one-half) of firms. Land ownership issues are the most common reason for not registering. Follow-up surveys 15 to 31 months later show higher mean profits, but largely in a few firms which grew rapidly. We find little evidence for other changes in behavior, but formalized firms express more trust in the state.

Suggested Citation

  • Suresh De Mel & David McKenzie & Christopher Woodruff, 2012. "The demand for, and consequences of, formalization among informal firms in Sri Lanka," NBER Working Papers 18019, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
    • Handle: RePEc:nbr:nberwo:18019
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • O14 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Industrialization; Manufacturing and Service Industries; Choice of Technology
    • O17 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Formal and Informal Sectors; Shadow Economy; Institutional Arrangements

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