On the Evolution of Regional Asymmetries

Abstract

The paper models the evolution of regional asymmetries, and the associated intra-distribution mobility, as the outcome of adoption decisions taken by firms at different locations. The following equilibria are characterised: Persistent asymmetry where nobody adopts, Leapfrogging where low-quality firms adopt, Forging ahead where high-quality firms adopt, and Catching up where everybody adopts. The paper studies the impact of economic integration on these equilibria and the evolution of technological asymmetries as well as intra-distribution mobility. In equilibrium, the regional intra-distribution Mobility is described by fluctuations between periods of Leapfrogging, Forging ahead and Catching up.