# name
Income inequality and economic growth in Asian countries

# metadata.dc.description.abstract[].value
This study examines income inequality across 53 Asian countries from 1990 to 2021, focusing on the application of the Kuznets’ curve theory. This hypothesis states an inverted U-shaped relationship exists between economic growth and inequality, suggesting an initial increase followed by a decline in income disparity as GDP per capita growth. We analyzed data accruing the share of income of the Top 1% income holders of each country, by regions and for the continent as a whole. We employed a fixed-effects panel model with GDP per capita, squared GDP per capita and cubed GDP per capita as explanatory variables. Our results include mixed evidence of the completion of the curve: Asia overall supports the Kuznets’ curve however the regional analysis reveal differences. While East and South Asia present with significant U-shaped relationship patterns, Central Asia shows an inverted N-shaped relationship. Referencing to West and Southeast Asia, they demonstrate similar U-shaped trends however not statistically significant. This research contributes by offering region-specific insights into inequality dynamics relating to economic growth to provide policymakers with tools to target interventions for inclusive development across Asian countries.

# metadata.dc.publisher[].value
Universitat de Barcelona. Facultat d'Economia i Empresa

# metadata.dc.rights[].value
cc-by-nc-nd, (c) Clavería González et al., 2025

# metadata.dc.source[].value
Documents de treball (Institut de Recerca en Economia Aplicada Regional i Pública (IREA))

# metadata.dc.title[].value
Income inequality and economic growth in Asian countries