The Eurasian customs union and the economic geography of Belarus: A panel convergence approach

This study presents novel research on the economic geography of Belarus. The 118 regions of Belarus are examined in relation to the Eurasian Customs Union (EACU) through the period 2005-2014. Spatial clusters and outliers are identified and compared across the periods prior and after the establishment of the EACU. We observe that EACU membership corresponds to a slowdown in the process of regional economic convergence in Belarus, and intensified economic competition with a geographical dimension among regions. We also observe that urban regions have benefited more from the EACU than less urbanised areas.

Key words: Eurasian Customs Union, Belarus, convergence, spatial analysis, economic integration.

JEL Classifications: F15, F55, O47, R11, R12, R58