The role of trade openness and labour productivity on mineral rents: evidence from East Asian countries

This study examined the sustainability of East Asian countries' extended reliance on mineral resource exports and foreign investment inflows for economic growth. By analysing panel data from 11 East Asian nations from 2000 to 2020, the research examined the impacts of trade openness and labour productivity on mineral resource rents. The findings showed that increasing trade liberalization and improving labour productivity negatively impact mineral rents. The research suggests that optimizing trade, productivity, industrial upgrading, and regional partnerships can help East Asian nations diversify their economies, move up global value chains, and achieve high-quality, long-term growth.