Abstract
This paper examines how initial inequality and poverty rate are related to subsequent economic growth in the provincial level of Vietnam. The results show a robust negative relationship between initial poverty rate and subsequent economic growth. However, there is no link between initial inequality and subsequent economic growth. The results also show that lower inequality leads to lower poverty rate and poverty reduction could help to reduce inequality. Other determinants of inequality and poverty reduction include human capital, investment, GDP growth rate and trade openness. The main policy implication that emerges from this paper is that concentrating on poverty elimination will help us to build a more equitable society without sacrificing economic growth.
Highlights
The links between growth, poverty and inequality have long been investigated
This paper aims to explore how initial inequality and poverty rate are related to subsequent economic growth in provinces of Vietnam
The regressions 1, 2 and 3 in Table 1 are based on equation 1, but they test the relationship between growth rate of GDP and each of the two provincial characteristics under consideration – initial poverty rate and initial inequality – one at a time
Summary
The links between growth, poverty and inequality have long been investigated. Earlier researchers like Lewis (1954) and Kuznets (1955) were primarily interested in the distributional consequences of economic development. Growth is only enhanced by investment in human capital, ceteris paribus, a society in which there is high inequality presents a relatively large number of poor households which invest in quantity rather than education. Poor households are tempted to conform to the norms and to fulfil social needs and expectations by involving in higher consumption activities and by lowering investment in human capital in order to reduce the gap with rich households. These activities maximise present welfare but go to the detriment of future welfare and growth. Empirical investigation is the key to understanding the relationship between inequality, poverty and growth
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
