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ICT, technological diffusion and economic growth in Chinese cities

Author

Listed:
  • Qing Li

    (Shanghai University)

  • Yanrui Wu

    (University of Western Australia)

Abstract

This study uses a rich city-level dataset to analyse the relationship between information and communication technology (ICT) and economic growth in Chinese cities during 2001–2016. It is shown that ICT not only improves the aggregate efficiency of a city but also helps the city absorb technological diffusion from the frontier city. In addition, distance plays little role in technological diffusion process associated with ICT. Cities geographically farther away from or closer to the frontier city can equally benefit from technological diffusion as long as they have the same level of ICT development.

Suggested Citation

  • Qing Li & Yanrui Wu, 2023. "ICT, technological diffusion and economic growth in Chinese cities," Empirical Economics, Springer, vol. 64(4), pages 1737-1768, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:empeco:v:64:y:2023:i:4:d:10.1007_s00181-022-02302-9
    DOI: 10.1007/s00181-022-02302-9
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    ICT; Technological diffusion; Economic growth; Chinese cities;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • O47 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Growth and Aggregate Productivity - - - Empirical Studies of Economic Growth; Aggregate Productivity; Cross-Country Output Convergence
    • O33 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Technological Change: Choices and Consequences; Diffusion Processes
    • R11 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - General Regional Economics - - - Regional Economic Activity: Growth, Development, Environmental Issues, and Changes

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