Tendency of exports technology structure and exports concentration in the Balkan economies 2000-2012

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to define the quality of export and exports specialization in the Balkan economies from 2000 to 2012. The research results may contribute to the understanding of economic trends in the countries of the region and at the same time provide guidelines in estimating future economic trends. Quality of exports is measured through the share of goods of higher levels of processing. The methodology of research is based on the Export Concentration Ratio which reflects the degree to which a country's exports are concentrated on a small number of products. The research results showed that in spite of a tendency of mild improvement of the quality of exports of Balkan countries 2000-2012, the quality level of exports from Balkan economies lags greatly behind the countries in the EU and to a lesser extent the Central European economies in transition, with some signs of catching-up. The stagnant and relatively high levels of Export concentration ratio and low share of high processing goods are indicating that Balkan economies are increasingly specializing in price-sensitive markets. For export success it is of great importance to have the transfer of modern technology and investment, especially through FDI, in competitive sectors which would 'spread' export offer. One of the keys for Balkan countries weak export lies in absence of the mix of science, education and industrial policies, which should be able to promote innovation, product quality and higher technological standards.