Complex network analysis reveals key countries in the South America production structure

Abstract We use input-output tables published by CEPAL for 10 South American countries to construct production networks for each economy and the region. We then apply complex network analysis to characterize the structure of the economies and the relation between national production networks and the regional economy. Main results give evidence that the most relevant countries for the regional structure are Brazil, Argentina, and Chile. These countries have different structural properties, but contribute greatly to the structure of the regional economy. The most important sectors of the region are agricultural activities and manufacturing of simple low-transformation products such as food. Finally, results give evidence of competition of countries in the same markets rather than cooperation.