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The Exchange Rate as an Industrial Policy

Author

Listed:
  • Pablo Ottonello
  • Diego J. Perez
  • William Witheridge

Abstract

We study the role of exchange rates in industrial policy. We construct an open-economy macroeconomic framework with production externalities and show that the desirability of these policies critically depends on the dynamic patterns of externalities. When they are stronger in earlier stages of development, economies that are converging to the technological frontier can improve welfare by intervening in foreign exchange markets, keeping the exchange rate undervalued, and speeding the transition; economies that are not converging to the technological frontier are better off not using the exchange rate as an industrial policy tool. Capital-flow mobility and labor market dynamism play a central role in the effectiveness of these policies. We also discuss the role of capital controls as an industrial policy tool and use our framework to interpret historical experiences.

Suggested Citation

  • Pablo Ottonello & Diego J. Perez & William Witheridge, 2024. "The Exchange Rate as an Industrial Policy," NBER Working Papers 32522, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
    • Handle: RePEc:nbr:nberwo:32522
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • F0 - International Economics - - General
    • F3 - International Economics - - International Finance
    • F4 - International Economics - - Macroeconomic Aspects of International Trade and Finance

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