South-North Convergence from a New Perspective

This North-South model of Schumpeterian endogenous growth combines a market, productivity and knowledge effect. A set of various convergent and divergent growth paths is derived that is much richer than in the literature so far. South-North convergence based on North-South technology diffusion through intermediate goods trade is guaranteed if the knowledge effect dominates the productivity effect. Moreover, a larger Southern market expands the area of convergence and can prevent divergence. Not only a larger Southern market size, but also a higher Southern steady state growth rate benefit the North so that convergence is desirable for both, the South and the North.

Hübler, Michael (2013), South-North Convergence from a New Perspective, ZEW Discussion Paper Nr. 13-104, Mannheim.