The real exchange rate matters, but why? A new developmentalist assessment

Abstract

New Developmentalism doctrine defends the central role played by a competitive real exchange rate in promoting catch-up in developing economies. Recently, this theory has been questioned by critics; the main criticism has been that an outward growth strategy based on a competitive real exchange rate would harm income/real wage distribution and have a negative effect on the economy. This study discusses how the real exchange rate influences growth in light of the new developmentalist doctrine and the contrasting experiences of Asian and Latin American countries. Its main contribution is to document the influence of the real exchange rate on economic performance, specifically through certain transmission channels. The article’s findings suggest that a competitive RER is an important aspect in a country’s growth path, insofar as it favors profits, capital accumulation, net exports, and gains in social capabilities.