General Equilibrium Evaluation of Deregulation in Energy Sectors in China

Abstract

The central government in China has implemented ambitious energy policy reforms since 1978. An important pillar of these reforms is the deregulation in the energy markets which manifests itself in the formation of energy prices. This study examines the macroeconomic impacts of deregulation in China using an applied CGE model and counterfactual policy simulations. The results point to substantial welfare improvement. Sectoral results point to a reallocation of resources and diversion of economic activities more toward domestic services.