Assessing the Dynamics of Terms of Trade in a Model of Cumulative Causation and Structural Change

Following a structural economic dynamic approach, this paper examines the potential impact of cumulative causation on the dynamics of terms of trade between North-South countries. Cumulative causation although being responsible for generating technical progress may cause leakage of some productivity gains from the exporting sectors to abroad. In this vein possibilities exist that the laggard countries benefit from this effect but the final outcome depends on structural economic dynamics of both developed and underdeveloped nations. The overall dynamics of the terms of trade is then shown to be strongly affected both by demand and supply considerations.