Digitalization, globalization, natural resources and institutions: implications for economic growth in landlocked African countries

What is it about?

Landlocked African countries face big challenges: long distances to seaports, high transport costs, and dependence on neighbors for trade. These disadvantages limit growth and make it harder to compete globally. Our study looks at 15 of these countries between 1996 and 2023 to see how digital technology, global integration, natural resources, investment, and institutions affect economic performance. We find that digitalization (like mobile phones and internet use) and strong institutions consistently boost growth. Globalization helps only when institutions are effective, while natural resource wealth often slows progress. The results show that building capable institutions is essential for turning technology and openness into broad, sustainable development.

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