Spatial Dependence and Regional Convergence in Brazil
The present paper introduces some spatial econometric techniques to
the convergence issue among Brazilian states. State data over the 1970-95 period are
considered to explore previous results that suggested convergence. As in the US case,
strong patterns of spatial correlation are found during the period. The spatial econometric
analysis reveals that spatial error dependence seems to be present resulting in
the potential for model misspecification. The results indicate that, although some
convergence among states is taking place, it seems to be more of regional phenomena
or perhaps some type of club convergence than a global convergence process. States
like São Paulo dominate the first group while the Northeast states form a second
group or club.
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