Economic Growth and Poverty Reduction

This study examines the question of whether economic growth tends to reduce poverty, where poverty is measured by the incomes of the poorest 20% and 40% of a population. Using the most recent data available, the paper shows that an increase in the rate of GDP growth translates into a direct one-for-one increase in the rate of growth of average incomes of the poorest 40%. There is little evidence to support the contention that economic growth and outward-oriented policies will hurt the poor. Countries with higher rates of economic growth over the last 30 years have achieved greater reductions in poverty.