基于引力模型的语言距离对我国外贸影响的实证分析

On the Impact of Language Distance on China’s Foreign Trade——Aided by Gravity Model

本文旨在通过一系列描述中国与主要贸易伙伴的语言距离或语言近似度的指标,研究语言距离对双边贸易的影响。为了把语言距离作为一个分析和预测双边贸易的重要变量引入引力模型,本文定义了语言距离的概念,考察了引力模型的现有理论,论证了纳入引力模型的可行性,最终研究了语言距离对我国对外贸易的影响,并提出了提高汉语的普及度、重视外国语(非英语)教育、大力发展语言服务产业等相关政策建议。

This paper studies the impact of language distance on bilateral trade based on a series of indicators describing language distance or linguistic approximation between Chinese and the languages of its major trading partners.The gravity model is ad⁃opted to analyze and predict bilateral trade with language distance as a significant vari⁃able.After determining the definition of language distance and discussing the theories of gravity model and its feasibility,this paper analyzes the impact of language distance on China's foreign trade.Some policy suggestions are put forward,such as improving the pop⁃ularity of Chinese,attaching importance to foreign language(non-English)education,and vigorously developing the language service industry.