Growth Lab to Develop New Research Agenda to Diagnose the Current Crisis and Drive Economic Growth in Bolivia

CAMBRIDGE, MA — The Growth Lab at Harvard Kennedy School is launching a new research agenda to investigate Bolivia’s economic challenges and formulate strategic policy options for stronger and more sustainable economic growth. This research initiative was made possible by a generous gift from Bolivian-American entrepreneur Marcelo Claure.

The multidisciplinary research team will be led by Ricardo Hausmann, director of the Growth Lab, and Rafik Hariri Professor of the Practice of International Political Economy at Harvard Kennedy School. Hausmann, who has led more than 50 economic policy research initiatives in more than 30 countries, has pioneered the ​economic complexity and growth diagnostics​ methodologies that have informed development policies, growth strategies, and diversification agendas across the world.

“We are grateful for this opportunity and eager to engage with all Bolivian counterparts to work through these pressing economic challenges,” said Hausmann. “Our work will not only draw on perspectives and expertise from across Harvard University, but also policymakers and researchers in Bolivia, and I am sure there is much we can learn from them.”

The Growth Lab will assemble a team of experts to provide support for the research agenda. Jaime Dunn, a renowned financial analyst with international experience and deep knowledge of the Bolivian economy, will be one of such experts joining the project as a special collaborator.

“I care deeply about the widespread economic struggles affecting so many in my native country, and I’m hopeful this research undertaken by the Growth Lab will be a step in the path to sustainable and inclusive growth,” said Marcelo Claure. “Based on the past work of Professor Hausmann and the Growth Lab, I am sure this will be an evidence-based diagnosis of the Bolivian economy, and the insights and recommendations will be shared with policymakers and business leaders of all political affiliations.”

Bolivia has been grappling with slowing economic growth, compounded by the depletion of its international reserves, wide fiscal deficits, and exchange rate difficulties. “A path to inclusive economic prosperity could rely on seizing green growth opportunities, leveraging the world’s largest lithium reserves, and the expanding skills of the Bolivian people,” noted Hausmann.

“Bolivia is a country full of talented and hardworking people who have what it takes to be more prosperous than they currently are. With adequate policies, the country could become a major contributor to the greening of the world’s economy and expand its growth opportunities in the process,” added Hausmann.