The Heterogeneous Impacts of Firm Upgrading on Energy Intensity

Povilas Lastauskas, Ziran Ding, Mustapha Douch

Research output: Working paper

Abstract

This paper examines how export activity impacts a firm's energy intensity, emphasizing the upgrading process. We introduce a firm-level complexity index incorporating two dimensions: the complexity of the traded goods and market destinations. We show that growth in external demand incentivizes firms to undertake upgrading activities, resulting in lower energy intensity. However, financial constraints diminish the energy efficiency gains from upgrading, especially for small firms. Additionally, upgraded firms can leverage higher markups, but this is effective only for larger firms. The findings suggest targeted support for small firms and underscore the necessity of open trade in a fragmented global landscape.
Original languageEnglish
PublisherInternational Monetary Fund
Number of pages60
ISBN (Print)9798400293580
DOIs
Publication statusE-pub ahead of print - 6 Dec 2024

Publication series

NameIMF Working Papers
No.248
Volume2024
ISSN (Print)1018-5941

Keywords / Materials (for Non-textual outputs)

  • firm upgrading
  • international trade
  • energy intensity
  • complexity
  • structural transformation
  • economic development

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