Regional Convergence-clubs and Dynamic Externalities

Abstract

This paper reports an attempt to investigate the extent of club-convergence amongst the prefectures of Greece during the time period 1980-2005. A model is developed in an attempt to assess the impact of agglomerations and regional capacities on the innovation and adoption of technology. Empirical application of this model suggests that adoption of technology and diversity in a region's economic structure are of critical importance in determining a club-convergence pattern. In addition, it is established that there is a significant spatial dimension to regional growth and that club-members are in close spatial proximity. One straightforward policy implication is that regional policies should provide the appropriate infrastructure in lagging regions so that they adopt advanced technology. . Convergenza-club regionale ed esternalitŕ dinamiche (Articolo ricevuto, giugno 2008; in forma definitiva, gennaio 2009)