POTENCIAL EXPORTADOR DAS FIRMAS INDUSTRIAIS BRASILEIRAS

We use Propensity Score Matching in an novel way to classify Brazilian industrial firms according to their potential to export. Our four-level classification specifically identifies non-exporting firms which have a degree of international competitiveness similar to firms which export. This conclusion is drawn by comparing various productive and technological characteristics of these potential exporters with those of exporting firms and observing little or no difference between the two groups. The effects of export stimulating policies may be improved by focusing more closely on these firms. If the potential exporters from 2000 began to export in 2001, export volume would increase 17% and the export base would be augmented by 64%.