The Hollowing Out Phenomenon In Japan

Abstract

This paper examined the ‘hollowing out’ (de-industrialization) phenomenon in Japan. We collected time series data for twenty years to investigate the home country impact of outward FDI and a weakening manufacturing sector. We used descriptive statistics and econometric techniques to show that de-industrialization is indeed taking place. We also showed that domestic factors such as low inflation, high wage rates and an increasing number of firms were associated with a more dynamic manufacturing sector. However, the persistent unemployment and long recession point to the need for policies that will invigorate domestic industrial activity if Japan is to return to a strong growth path.