Re-examination of J-curve effect for Japan, Korea and Taiwan

This study uses the generalized impulse response function from the vector error correction (VEC) model to examine whether the J-curve effect exists for Japan, Korea, and Taiwan. Both bilateral (with the US) and aggregate (with the rest of the world) cases are considered. Special attention has been given to the number of lag orders and conintegration selection and the tests of exogeneity of foreign income and structural changes. The conventional J-curve phenomenon can only be observed in Japan's aggregate trade case. In Korea and Taiwan, where most export to import ratio increases during the currency contract period, is consistent with the theory that both economies are small.