Abstract
This paper evaluates output productivity growth convergence, using modified Barro regressions, of Japanese prefectures grouped in various regional industrial clusters for the period 2000-2003, with respect to seven manufacturing sectors. A specialization indicator is designed in order to develop the concept of cluster epicenters, and establish an empirical basis for grouping prefectures according to their deeds in each manufacturing sector. Results show that in the electrical and transport machinery sectors alternative prefectural arrangements would have been more adequate industrial clusters than traditional ones, during the period in question, for reducing output productivity growth dispersion in these two manufacturing sectors across Japan, which in turn could have catalyzed Japanese industrial revitalization.
