Development Strategies: Lessons from the Experiences of South Korea, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam

From:
Department for International Development
Published
1 January 2010
Country:
Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, South Korea
Document Type:
Working Paper
Theme:
Economic Growth
Authors:
Khan, H.A.

Abstract

This piece synthesizes the development strategies of Korea, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam and draws some relevant lessons. Using a complex adaptive systems approach, strategic openness, a set of heterodox macroeconomic policies, creation of institutions for productive investment in both agriculture and industry, avoidance of severe inequalities and political conflict, special initial conditions and willingness to learn from unexpected developments are found to be some of these factors. Although no country can succeed by following mechanically the experience of another country cautious experimentation, rapid feedback and flexible, pragmatic policy-making with a strategic medium to long run perspective, can be helpful. Dynamic learning and flexible institution building are essential components of such a strategic approach to development.

Citation

Khan, H.A. Development Strategies: Lessons from the Experiences of South Korea, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam. UNU-WIDER, Helsinki, Finland (2010) 12 pp. ISBN 978-92-9230-245-0 [WIDER Working Paper No. 2010/10]

Development Strategies: Lessons from the Experiences of South Korea, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam

Published 1 January 2010
Contents