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Migration networks, export shocks, and human capital acquisition: Evidence from China

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  • Cai, Shu
  • Shi, Xinzheng
  • Xu, Zhufeng

Abstract

We examine the impact of export shocks proxied by destination countries’ tariffs on the post middle school enrollment of the rural population in China. We complement the literature by examining the across-region spillover effects of export shocks through initial migration networks. We find that the reduction of export tariffs at both the local and migration-destination prefectures significantly decreases post middle school enrollment of the 16–18 years old cohort, but the latter is stronger. Further analysis suggests that employment in the secondary industry rises significantly with the reduction of export tariffs, which improves job opportunities and thus increases the post middle school dropout rate.

Suggested Citation

  • Cai, Shu & Shi, Xinzheng & Xu, Zhufeng, 2024. "Migration networks, export shocks, and human capital acquisition: Evidence from China," Journal of Comparative Economics, Elsevier, vol. 52(2), pages 568-589.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jcecon:v:52:y:2024:i:2:p:568-589
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jce.2024.04.001
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Tariff shocks; Educational choice; High school enrollment; Migration networks;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • F16 - International Economics - - Trade - - - Trade and Labor Market Interactions
    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity
    • O12 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Microeconomic Analyses of Economic Development
    • O14 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Industrialization; Manufacturing and Service Industries; Choice of Technology

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