Recent cyclical movements in the spanish productivity. An aggregate and sectoral analysis

One of the most debated themes on the Spanish economy is the one related to productivity. While negative trends were observed during the time of expansion, its evolution has become much more positive during the recent years of strong economic and financial crisis. Additionally, this behaviour is contrary to that displayed by other European countries. For this reason, this paper aims to analyse the effects of the economic cycle on Spanish labour productivity from 1980 onwards, especially focusing on the characteristic industrial structure of our economy. We use data provided by the Conference Board and the Quarterly National Accounts (INE).