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Intellectual property protection, new quality productivity, and economic growth: Empirical evidence from China

Author

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  • Guo, Rengui
  • Ruanzhou, Yilong
  • Ruan, Hanmo

Abstract

This study utilizes the panel data of 31 provinces in China from 2012 to 2022 to empirically examine the impact of the coupled synergy of intellectual property protection and new quality productivity on economic growth. It introduces the regulatory and mediating mechanisms of scientific and technological innovation, mismatch of innovation resources, and international competitiveness. The study finds that: (1) intellectual property protection and new quality productivity can significantly promote economic growth, and the better the synergy between the two, the stronger the promotion effect; (2) there is obvious heterogeneity among regions, and the synergy effect is more significant in the eastern and central regions; (3) sci-tech innovation plays a key intermediary role; (4) mismatch of innovation resources and international competitiveness play an important moderating effect in this mechanism. This conclusion provides empirical references for improving the intellectual property protection, cultivating new quality productivity, and realizing high-quality development.

Suggested Citation

  • Guo, Rengui & Ruanzhou, Yilong & Ruan, Hanmo, 2025. "Intellectual property protection, new quality productivity, and economic growth: Empirical evidence from China," International Review of Economics & Finance, Elsevier, vol. 101(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:reveco:v:101:y:2025:i:c:s1059056025003089
    DOI: 10.1016/j.iref.2025.104145
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