Structural Shifts in the Economy of the Amur Region

The article provides an economic and statistical review of the structural changes in the economy of the Amur Region from 2004 to 2016. An analysis of regional statistics on the industrial structure of gross value added (GVA) over the period under review allowed the author to identify quantitative parameters identifying economic activities that determine the characteristics of the modern economy of the region, and those that have not been developed. Based on statistical calculations, it was concluded that leading economic activities in the Amur Region are «Transport and Communication», «Mining and quarrying», «Wholesale and retail trade». The primary objective of the study was to determine the degree of intensity of structural shifts in the regional economy and identify the main trends of its development. The «absolute» gains and growth factors of the relative structural components of the GVA for the Amur Region for the period under review were calculated to characterize these structural changes. According to the author, the calculations indicate the absence of a positive transformation in the structure of the regional economy. Thus, the intensive development of the commodity sectors of the economy continues, and the low growth rates of the manufacturing industries are noted. To carry out a summary assessment of structural changes in the regional economy, the author has calculated the linear and quadratic coefficients of the «absolute» structural changes. The results provide an opportunity to more accurately identify critical areas for investment, as well as support those economic activities that will allow the region to maximize its potential benefits.