Testing Okun’s Law in South Africa Cover Image

Testing Okun’s Law in South Africa
Testing Okun’s Law in South Africa

Testing Okun’s Law in South Africa

Author(s): Sanele Stungwa, Tozamile SIPHUXOLO
Subject(s): Economy, National Economy, Business Economy / Management, Methodology and research technology
Published by: ASERS Publishing
Keywords: gross domestic product; unemployment rate; Okun’s coefficient; South Africa;

Summary/Abstract: The purpose of this study is to see whether Okun's coefficient exists in South Africa. The study analysed yearly data from 1995 to 2020. The study used an error correction model (ECM) to assess the short-run relationship between the variables under investigation. The granger causality test is also used to examine the variables' short-run causality. According to the study's results, there is a negative and significant relationship between unemployment and GDP in the short run. As a result, Okun's Law applies in South Africa. The Granger causality test findings reveal that GDP Granger causes unemployment in South Africa. As a result, the study recommends that policymakers prioritize balancing labour-intensive and capital-intensive jobs, as well as encouraging entrepreneurship and sufficient education and training.

  • Issue Year: XVII/2022
  • Issue No: 76
  • Page Range: 153 - 161
  • Page Count: 9
  • Language: English