"Sectoral structure and real convergence among Spanish regions" (together with Juncal Cuņado), International Advances in Economic research, May 2000, p. 259-270.

This paper intends to carry out some investigation about the link between sectoral structure, growth and convergence.  Its main hypothesis is that the reallocation of resources to more dynamic sectors may foster economic growth. We analyse data from Spanish regions over the years 1980-95. A preliminary look at the data shows that differences in productivity across sectors are rather large, manufacturing being the most efficient one at the end of the period considered. The pursuance of a panel estimation suggests that the labour share in the most advanced sectors is positively associated with productivity growth. Moreover, we detect a negative correlation between lagged levels of sectoral productivities in agriculture, manufacturing and services and productivity growth. This can be interpreted as suggesting a catching up effect in productivity in these three sectors.

Keywords: catch-up, productivity differentials, sectoral reallocation, technological diffusion.

JEL codes: 040, 050, R10