A spatial stochastic frontier model introducing inefficiency spillovers

Abstract

This paper develops a spatial Durbin stochastic frontier model for panel data introducing spillover effects in the determinants of technical efficiency (SDF-STE). The model nests several existing spatial and non-spatial stochastic frontier specifications and is estimated using maximum-likelihood techniques. Estimates are shown to be unbiased even for small sample sizes and for alternative specifications of the spatial weight matrix implementing different Monte Carlo simulations. Finally, an application to the Italian accommodation sector is provided. Empirical findings suggest the relevance of the SDF-STE model in capturing labour productivity and knowledge spillover effects.