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Segmented Local Labor Markets in Postreform China: Gender Earnings Inequality in the Case of Two Towns in Zhejiang Province

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  • Wei Xu

    (Department of Geography, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada T1K 3M4)

  • Kok-Chiang Tan

    (Department of Geography, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada N1G 2W1)

  • Guixin Wang

    (Institute of Population Research, Fudan University, Shanghai, China)

Abstract

In this paper we aim to explore the segmentation structure of Chinese labor markets, especially gender-related segmentation, at a local level. Through a case-study approach, the discussion is centered on the multiple dualities of the local labor market determined by gender, place, migration, and the rural–urban divide. Although the empirical findings on gender differentiation in Chinese labor markets validate the conclusions of labor-market segmentation theory in general, they also point to the uniqueness of the segmentation processes of the Chinese labor market during the course of its economic transition since the reform. In this study we find that both place and space play an important role in configuring labor market segments, and the spatial construction of local labor markets is shaped greatly by the rural–urban social structure as defined by the household-registration system.

Suggested Citation

  • Wei Xu & Kok-Chiang Tan & Guixin Wang, 2006. "Segmented Local Labor Markets in Postreform China: Gender Earnings Inequality in the Case of Two Towns in Zhejiang Province," Environment and Planning A, , vol. 38(1), pages 85-109, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:envira:v:38:y:2006:i:1:p:85-109
    DOI: 10.1068/a37295
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Jasmine Gideon, 2016. "Migration and Health: Examining the Linkages through a Gender Lens," Working Papers id:8247, eSocialSciences.

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