Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0
Author-Name: Christian Chacua
Author-Workplace-Name: Harvard's Growth Lab
Author-Name: Matte Hartog
Author-Email: matte_hartog@hks.harvard.edu
Author-Workplace-Name: Center for International Development at Harvard University
Title: Complexity: Hausmann-Hidalgo Economic Complexity
Abstract: Economic complexity is an active field with a growing number of methodologies and applications. Among the different paradigms, the Hausmann-Hidalgo economic complexity framework offers a way to quantify the sophistication and productive knowledge embedded in an economy. In this work, we provide an overview of its foundational concepts, empirical applications, policy uses, and directions for future research. We aim to equip readers with a basic understanding of this framework in simple words and to help them navigate the vast literature. We argue that the Hausmann-Hidalgo economic complexity serves as a flexible framework for understanding the dynamics of knowledge diversification across multiple economic domains and provides a starting point for the design of place-based policies. 
Creation-Date: 2026-06
Keywords: economic complexity
Number: 270
Handle: RePEc:glh:wpfacu:270
File-Url: https://growthlab.hks.harvard.edu/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/2026-06-glwp-270-Hausmann-Hidalgo-Complexity.pdf
File-Format: application/pdf