Does openness reduce wage inequality in developing countries? Panel data evidence from Bangladesh

Abstract

This paper provides panel data evidence on trade liberalization and wage inequality in Bangladesh. Using several standard econometric models, wage equations for skilled and unskilled workers in the formal manufacturing sector are estimated for the 1975-2002 period. The results, particularly the estimates from a dynamic fixed effects model, provide some weak evidence that openness contributes to a reduction in wage inequality between skilled and unskilled workers. The results also indicate that real wages of both unskilled and skilled workers increased during the period.