Some new evidence of old trends: Japanese construction, 1960-1990

Abstract

Using the seven input-output tables compiled in Japan to date, this paper extends earlier analysis by adding the analysis of 1985 and 1990 tables. This paper shows that the Japanese construction sector's share in GNP has declined since 1980; the GNP share of manufacturing is continuing to decline and that of services is continuing to grow; the economy-wise effect of construction activity is continuing to decline; and the construction inputs from manufacturing are continuing to decline whereas the sector's inputs from services are continuing to grow. All these are signs of a growing ‘maturity’ of the Japanese economy, which in this regard appears to follow the path of other advanced industrial countries.