Selected Issues Papers

A New Growth Engine for Japan: Women in STEM Fields; Japan

Author/Editor:

Rui Xu

Publication Date:

May 18, 2023

Electronic Access:

Free Download. Use the free Adobe Acrobat Reader to view this PDF file

Summary:

Despite recent improvements in female labor force participation, women remain underrepresented in STEM fields in Japan. Given the close link between STEM workers and innovation, encouraging women to pursue STEM careers could boost growth potential. Using a calibrated endogenous growth model with STEM talent, this paper quantifies the potential gains from eliminating barriers to STEM fields among women. The findings suggest that bridging the gender gap in STEM fields can boost TFP growth by 20 percent and consumption-equivalent welfare by 4 percent in Japan.

Series:

Selected Issues Paper No. 2023/030

Subject:

Gender Gender diversity Gender inequality International organization Labor Labor markets Monetary policy Production Total factor productivity Women

Frequency:

Regular