Italy and Japan--Convergence or Continuing Diversity?

Journal article

The Italian and Japanese economies show both similarities and differences, some of which are briefly discussed. Both countries grew rapidly in comparative perspective since World War II; Japan recorded greater cyclical fluctuations than Italy; despite this, however, it enjoyed full employment and high labour force participation throughout, while Italy suffered from more joblessness and lower activity rates. Corporate governance institutions, similar before the war, differ quite markedly today; public sector intervention in the economy has been widespread in both countries; Japan's appears to have been more efficient than Italy's. (

Authors: Boltho, A

• Journal: Economic Systems
• Volume: 23
• Publication date: 1999-01-01
• ISSN: 0939-3625