Tutorial of the Atlas of Economic Complexity

The Atlas of Economic Complexity is an interactive platform developed by the Growth Lab at Harvard University. Its objective is to visualize and analyze the competitiveness and economic complexity of countries using export data.

• Measures the diversity and sophistication of the export structure
• Uses the ECI (Economic Complexity Index)
• Provides interactive maps and advanced graphics

1. Visit atlas.hks.harvard.edu
2. Click on “Explore the Atlas”
3. Use the side navigation menu to access the different sections
4. Explore maps, rankings, profiles by country or product

Select a country in the "Country Profiles" section to see:

• Main exports
• Economic Complexity Index
• Positions in the global ranking
• Diversification opportunities based on existing capabilities

From the "Product Space" panel you can analyze:

• Complexity and added value of specific products
• Relationships between products and sectors (related capability)
• Which countries export a certain product

The "Rankings" tab allows you to:

• Compare countries by the ECI (Economic Complexity Index)
• Visualize its evolution from 2000 to the present
• Compare similar countries or competitors in exports

The "Product Space" shows an interactive map that:

• Reveals which products are related in terms of productive capabilities
• Helps understand which industries a country can diversify into
• Shows products not currently exported but with high chances of success

Example: Peru

• The profile shows a strong concentration in copper, gold, and minerals
• The ECI index is relatively low due to lack of diversification
• The product map suggests opportunities in processed foods and pharmaceuticals

This analysis can be useful for public institutions, exporters, and economic analysts.

• Combine this tool with TradeMap for validation of trade data
• Regularly consult the annual changes of the ECI index
• Use the graphs in PDF or PNG for reports and presentations