Determinantes da economia informal: uma análise de clusterização e componentes principais em países desenvolvidos e em desenvolvimento

Abstract

This study investigates the diversity and determinants of informality in different countries, using clustering methods and Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The clustering results revealed two main groups of countries with distinct socioeconomic characteristics. Cluster 1 is mainly composed of developed countries, characterized by more formalized economies, high levels of human capital, greater global economic integration, greater economic freedom, and higher attraction of foreign direct investment. In contrast, Cluster 2 mainly includes developing countries, which face significant challenges related to informality, such as low levels of human capital, high perception of corruption, greater gender inequality, more bureaucracy, and higher unemployment rates. PCA identified the main factors contributing to these differences, highlighting the importance of economic globalization, economic freedom, corruption, and human capital in CP1, and bureaucratic difficulties and labor market conditions in CP2. This study provides a solid basis for the formulation of specific and contextualized public policies aimed at mitigating the problems of informality and promoting socioeconomic development in an equitable and sustainable manner.