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Worker mobility and productivity spillovers: An emerging market perspective

Author

Listed:
  • Ayanda Hlatshwayo
  • Friedrich Kreuser
  • Carol Newman
  • John Rand

Abstract

This paper uses matched employer-employee data from South Africa to examine the extent to which technology transfers between firms through the hiring of workers. Allowing for differential spillovers based on observable technology differences between sending and receiving firms, we find strong evidence for positive productivity spillovers through worker mobility. In contrast to previous studies set in more advanced economies, our results suggest that negative spillovers can occur.

Suggested Citation

  • Ayanda Hlatshwayo & Friedrich Kreuser & Carol Newman & John Rand, 2019. "Worker mobility and productivity spillovers: An emerging market perspective," WIDER Working Paper Series wp-2019-114, World Institute for Development Economic Research (UNU-WIDER).
    • Handle: RePEc:unu:wpaper:wp-2019-114
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Ohlsbom, Roope, 2022. "Worker Mobility and Productivity Spillovers," ETLA Working Papers 95, The Research Institute of the Finnish Economy.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Technology transfer; Linked employer-employee data; Spillovers; Worker mobility;
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