The Role of FDI in Fostering Exports from the Host Country

Abstract

In this paper, I propose a theoretical model analyzing the impact of FDI on exports from the host country. Using the framework of monopolistic competition with heterogenous firms, I show that the entry of highly efficient MNEs increases competition in the export market, which leads to crowding-out of domestic exporters. As a result, even though overall efficiency of the industry increases, exports by this industry may decrease.Further on, I add into my model a potential spillover effect that FDI can induce by lowering costs associated to export activities for all firms. I show that in such situation, the increased efficiency is more likely to outweigh the negative competition effect, resulting in larger exports from the host country.