Graduate School of International Studies Ajou University
Publication Year
2014-08
Language
eng
Alternative Abstract
ABSTRACT
The main purpose of this thesis is to find the effect of FDI inflows on export/import performance in Lao PDR. An advanced Econometric Methodology is conducted to analyst annual time series data of variables for the period of 1990 to 2012. Cointegration technique and Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) analyst short run as well as long run relationship of FDI inflows and export/import performance and Granger Causality investigates the feedback effect from export/import performance to FDI inflows. According to empirical results, the relationship of FDI inflows and export performance is not identified. Therefore, FDI inflows will not contribute to boost export growth in the short run and long run. However, the relationship of FDI inflows and import performance is proved. So, FDI inflows have positively impact on import performance both in short run and long run which means that an increasing of FDI inflows lead to increase import performance. In addition, there is one-way causality relationship running from FDI inflows to import performance, but the feedback effect from import performance to FDI inflows is not found. In order to boost exportation through FDI inflows, the Lao government needs to formulate its investment and export policies as well as to implement in the efficiency and effectiveness both in National and International level. Moreover, local businesses are encouraged to invest in Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) which would contribute directly to sustainable economic development in general, to boost exportation and reduce importation in particular.
Keywords: Foreign direct investment inflows, export/import performance, Cointegration, Vector Error Correction Model, Granger Causality, Lao PDR.