Spatial Inequality of Growth between Morocco Regions

SAHIBI, Youness and HAMZAOUI, Moustapha (2017): Spatial Inequality of Growth between Morocco Regions. Published in: Mediterranean Journal of Social Sciences

Abstract

Although significant progress had been made in Morocco, the inter-regional inequalities persist. The aim of this paper is to analyse this spatial inequality and convergence phenomenon in Morocco, using regional data between 2000 and 2007. Thus, relying on methods of spatial data analysis and taken from theoretical and empirical contributions, this paper analyses the role of the sectorial externalities and spatial spillovers in growth. Next, we tested the existence of a convergence process and the conditions for its improvement. The results showed the existence of a growth convergence process in value added and productivity but not in employment. On the other hand, the variables of human capital and infrastructure can significantly reduce regional inequality. Thus, we conclude that the conventional policies based solely on the infrastructure development or education are not sufficient. A more comprehensive approach that integrates these two axes and encourages business development and knowledge transfer is needed.

• Item Type: MPRA Paper
• Language: English
• Keywords: Spatial Inequality, Growth, Morocco, Convergence
• Subjects: J - Labor and Demographic Economics > J1 - Demographic Economics > J18 - Public Policy; R - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics > R1 - General Regional Economics > R11 - Regional Economic Activity: Growth, Development, Environmental Issues, and Changes; R - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics > R1 - General Regional Economics > R12 - Size and Spatial Distributions of Regional Economic Activity

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