STEM and International Trade in a Gender Perspective: The Cases of Brazil, Chile, and Mexico

Abstract

The development of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) careers in Latin America plays a critical role in fostering technological progress and innovation, thereby enhancing economic growth and competitiveness through trade, which, in turn, stimulates investments in R&D. This study explores the influence of economic opportunities presented by international trade on the gender gap among STEM-trained professionals. The findings reveal that exports of high-value-added services contribute positively to the labour market inclusion of women. Despite this progress, gender segregation continues to be a major barrier to bridging the gender gap, indicating a persistent adherence to traditional gender roles.

Keywords

• international trade
• gender gap
• employment
• gender roles
• STEM
• technology intensity