Exploring the Time–Frequency Quantile Nexus Between SDG 9 and SDG 10 in Latin American Countries

ABSTRACT Persistent inequality and uneven industrial development remain major challenges to sustainable development in Latin America. Although SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) are closely connected, their relationship across different distributional and time–frequency conditions remains insufficiently understood. This study examines the dynamic association between SDG 9 and SDG 10 using quarterly data from Latin American countries and a wavelet–quantile framework comprising wavelet quantile cointegration (WQC), wavelet quantile correlation (WQCorr), and wavelet quantile regression (WQR). The findings reveal significant equilibrium relationships between the two goals across several quantiles and time horizons. WQCorr indicates weaker short‐term but stronger long‐term co‐movement, particularly around middle quantiles. WQR further shows positive and significant associations in both directions, with SDG 10–SDG 9 relationships more pronounced in shorter and medium horizons, whereas SDG 9–SDG 10 associations strengthen over medium and longer horizons. The findings support integrated policies targeting SME development, education, finance, technology transfer, infrastructure, and innovation. Such measures can help align industrial development with broader efforts to reduce inequality and promote inclusive sustainable development.