Integration of Macroeconomic Behavioural Relationships and the Input-Output Block (Romanian Modelling Experience)

Abstract

The last version of the Romanian macromodel (Dobrescu 2005b) incorporates the experience accumulated through the utilisation of its previous forms - either experimental (Dobrescu 1991-1994) or operational (Dobrescu 1996-2005a). At the same time, it introduces some methodological and informational improvements. The most significant of them is the structural decomposition of economy, according to the input-output techniques. Output and absorption are divided into: a) agriculture, sylviculture, forestry, hunting, and fishing; b) mining and energy; c) manufacturing industry; d) construction; e) transport, post and communications; f) trade and services. These categories can be easily translated into the classical three-sectors classification: primary (a+b), secondary (c+d), and tertiary (e+f). Due to the relatively advanced stage of the transitional processes in Romania, the behavioural functions were modelled - as much as possible - by the standard relationships. Besides, unlike the previous versions (that used statistical series beginning with 1980) the present one is based exclusively on information regarding the period 1989-2004. Since the input-output tables are defined yearly, the model contains only annual indicators. They are expressed in denominated local currency (RON). The export, import, and exchange rate series were transformed in Euro. When there were several informational sources for the same indicator, the data extracted or derived from national accounts have been adopted. The statistical series are relatively short and often fractured (because of the transforming processes of transition). Although, it is known that ADF test of stationarity does not offer reliable results in the case of limited number of observations, generally the series satisfying it were used. The simplest regression methods were also preferred. The structural breaks in evolution of some series have been dealt by the inclusion of dummies. Obviously, all these circumstances weaken the stability of econometric coefficients that must be continuously updated. The first two chapters of the paper characterise the main macroeconomic behavioural relationships and input-output coefficients. The third one discusses a possible scenario for the Romanian economy during 2005-2010. A set of simulations is presented in the final part of the paper; these reveal some operational features of the macromodel.