Although a rich and extensive body of theoretical research on new economic geography has emerged, empirical research remains comparatively less well developed. This paper reviews the existing empirical literature on the predictions of new economic geography models for the distribution of income and production across space. The discussion highlights connections with other research in regional and urban economics, identification issues, potential alternative explanations and possible areas for further research.

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April 2009     Paper Number CEPDP0925

Download PDF - The Empirics of New Economic Geography

This CEP discussion paper is published under the centre's Trade programme.