Least squares estimation of joint production functions by the differential evolution method of global optimization

Economics Bulletin, 2007, vol. 3, issue 51, pages 1-13

Abstract: Most of the studies relating to estimation of joint production functions have noted two difficulties: first that allocation of inputs to different outputs is not known, and the second that a method of estimation cannot have more than one dependent variable, which necessitates construction of a composite output transformation function. This study has conducted some simulation experiments on joint estimation of the CES, the Transcendental and the Nerlove-Ringstad functions. Allocation parameters of inputs across the products have been introduced. Estimation has been done jointly, but without constructing a composite macro production function or an output transformation function. We use nonlinear least squares based on the Differential Evolution method of global optimization that permits fitting multiple production functions simultaneously.

Keywords: allocation parameters; canonical correlation; multiple dependent variables; Differential Evolution; Joint production; multiple output; nonlinear least squares (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: C1 C6 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2007 Written 2007-10-11

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Working Paper: Least squares estimation of joint production functions by the Differential Evolution method of global optimization (2007)
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