Infrastructure and economic development in developing economies: New empirical evidence from night-time satellite imagery in Vietnam

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to empirically investigate the impact of infrastructure on economic development in developing economies. Design/methodology/approach A panel data analysis approach is utilised to evaluate the influence of various types of infrastructure on economic development in Vietnam over the period 2003–2013. Specifically, this study uses spatial night-light data taken from NASA’s satellite as an alternative proxy for economic development. Findings The analyses indicate that infrastructure enhancement consistently exerts a positive effect on the economy. Upon further investigations of the channels through which infrastructure could affect economic development, the empirical results reveal, in addition, that the developmental impact of infrastructure tends to be stronger if more rigorous government supervision and oversight of the construction and delivery of infrastructure projects are in place to ensure the efficiency and effectiveness of the private sector’s investment in infrastructure facilities. Finally, the interaction of infrastructure with human capital appears to exert an especially important influence upon economic development. Originality/value This study contributes to the debate over whether infrastructure has a real developmental effect in developing countries. Some important policy implications are then drawn from the empirical analysis. As a result, this paper will be of value to other researchers, economists, business leaders and policy-makers attempting to understand the economic benefit of infrastructure development.