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Abstract
Using a regionally disaggregated computable general equilibrium model, we analyze the differential
welfare impacts of a cash transfer program targeted at rural areas. The direct effect of the transfers
decreases regional income differentials, but the indirect effects depend on how the program is financed.
Financing the program with a more efficient tax system is also less regressive and has favorable urban
impacts. The less efficient instruments result in relatively higher incomes in all rural regions, but are more
regressive. The increasing share of urban poverty highlights the shortcomings of rural targeting and raises the issue of horizontal equity.