Is 3D printing a threat to global trade? The trade effects you didn't hear about

• 成果类型: Article
• 署名作者: Freund, Caroline; Mulabdic, Alen; Ruta, Michele
• 署名单位: University of California System; University of California San Diego; The World Bank
• 刊物名称: JOURNAL OF INTERNATIONAL ECONOMICS
• ISSN/ISSBN: 0022-1996
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jinteco.2022.103646
• 发表日期: 2022
• 关键词: 3D printing; TRADE

摘要

In the mid-2000s, the production of hearing aids shifted almost entirely to 3D printing. Using difference-in-differences and synthetic control methods, this paper examines the effects of this shift on trade flows. Exploiting variation in the timing of adoption of the new technology by different producers to identify the causal effects of 3D printing, the analysis finds that ex-ports of hearing aids increased by roughly 80% following the introduction of the new technol-ogy. There is no evidence of a localization effect, as overall trade in hearing aids expanded by a similar amount. As a robustness check, the paper examines 35 products that are partially 3D printed and finds positive and significant effects on trade. These effects are stronger for more complex and lighter goods. The results counter widespread views that 3D printing will shorten supply chains and reduce trade. (c) 2022 Published by Elsevier B.V.