Article info.

ABSTRACT

Received 19 Jan 2018
Revised 11 Mar 2018

Accepted 30 Nov 2018

This paper is to analyse income inequality in Vietnam in the 2000s based upon the Gini coefficient method. Compared with other conventional measures (i.e. the Lorenz curve, the Atkinson and the Theil’s approach), the Gini coefficient draws a clearer picture of inequality since it provides unique results irrespective of varying social attitude to inequality (inequality aversion). In contrast, the measures with the Atkinson and Theil indices are strictly subject to changes in inequality aversion which, however, still has ambiguities due to data source constraints. The study shows a moderate level of, and stability in, inequality during 2002–2010. Equitable economic growth with respect to geographical dimensions, migration from rural to urban areas and migrants’ remittance are the main reasons behind the results.

Keywords

Gini coefficient, household living standard, income inequality, Theil indices, Atkinson index, Vietnam

Cited as: Phuc, P.V., 2018. The living standard inequality in Vietnam: A statistical analysis. Can Tho University Journal of Science. 54(8): 37-44.