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Foreign patents surge and technology spillovers in China (1985–2009): Evidence from the patent and trade markets

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  • Cai, Helen (Huifen)
  • Sarpong, David
  • Tang, Xiaoyun
  • Zhao, Guiqin

Abstract

•We examine the sharp increase of foreign patent applications in China.•Drawing on industry level data from 19 countries and regions, we test the market covering and competition threat hypotheses.•We found that foreign patent applications in China depend on the market decision and patent decision of competitor countries.•Foreign patent applications in China is also influenced significantly by the reform of the Chinese patent system.

Suggested Citation

  • Cai, Helen (Huifen) & Sarpong, David & Tang, Xiaoyun & Zhao, Guiqin, 2020. "Foreign patents surge and technology spillovers in China (1985–2009): Evidence from the patent and trade markets," Technological Forecasting and Social Change, Elsevier, vol. 151(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:tefoso:v:151:y:2020:i:c:s0040162519310947
    DOI: 10.1016/j.techfore.2019.119784
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