SA should design economic policy based on strengths of regions: here’s how
To build the economy the state should devolve national policy to allow provinces to build on their strengths
22 February 2022 - 19:45
Economists and policymakers seem to have a blind spot when thinking about how the economy functions and what determines success. Analytical frameworks and government policies consistently neglect the role of space and geography in favour of national averages and sectoral plans. Yet growing evidence from around the world shows the importance of place and location for productivity, growth and development.
Intuitively, it is obvious economic progress depends on the quality of local skills, capable public institutions, reliable infrastructure and proximity to markets and suppliers. But just how important are these factors compared with the particular mix of local industries and macroeconomic conditions?..
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