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Multi-Dimensional Characteristics and Zoning Optimization of the Spatial Pattern of Specialized Villages in China: A Large Sample Analysis Based on the Supply–Demand Coupling

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  • Jiangjiang Xie

    (College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an 710127, China)

  • Yang Rui

    (College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an 710127, China
    Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Earth Surface System and Environmental Carrying Capacity, Northwest University, Xi’an 710127, China)

  • Kejing Liu

    (College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an 710127, China)

  • Weihong Sun

    (College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an 710127, China)

Abstract

Specialized villages, which are centered around product supply and driven by market demand, serve as critical vehicles for rural industrial revitalization. This study utilizes a sample of 13,702 national-level industrial villages to examine the spatial distribution patterns of specialized villages in China across multiple dimensions. The research employs the Spatial Design Network Analysis (sDNA) model and the Coupling Degree Model to identify regional characteristics of product supply accessibility and the alignment of market demand in these villages. Finally, the paper integrates the spatial analysis results of both supply and demand to propose an optimized layout strategy for specialized villages at the county level. The findings indicate the following: (1) Specialized villages in China exhibit extensive coverage and strong agglomeration, with a high concentration in the eastern region, forming seven core zones arranged in an arc. The provinces with the highest numbers of specialized villages are Zhejiang, Heze, and Yiwu. (2) The spatial distribution of specialized villages demonstrates multi-scale differentiation and spatial autocorrelation, with the most uneven distribution and strongest local autocorrelation occurring at the county level. (3) The zoning results for both supply and demand aspects are closely related to economic divisions and population geographical boundaries, forming nine combination types. These can further be classified into four distinct zones: Demonstration Leading Zones, Optimization Development Zones, Collaborative Promotion Zones, and Cultivation Guidance Zones. (4) Each zone type plays a unique strategic role in the revitalization of rural industries and necessitates differentiated development strategies for specialized villages. The conclusions of this study provide a foundation for optimizing the spatial layout and zonal development of specialized villages in China.

Suggested Citation

  • Jiangjiang Xie & Yang Rui & Kejing Liu & Weihong Sun, 2025. "Multi-Dimensional Characteristics and Zoning Optimization of the Spatial Pattern of Specialized Villages in China: A Large Sample Analysis Based on the Supply–Demand Coupling," Land, MDPI, vol. 14(2), pages 1-21, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jlands:v:14:y:2025:i:2:p:339-:d:1585806
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Jiajun Qiao & Jay Lee & Xinyue Ye, 2016. "Spatiotemporal Evolution of Specialized Villages and Rural Development: A Case Study of Henan Province, China," Annals of the American Association of Geographers, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 106(1), pages 57-75, January.
    2. Masoumeh Ghorbani & Thomas Brenner, 2021. "Prerequisites and initial developments for economic specialization in lagging regions—A study of specialized villages in Iran," Review of Regional Research: Jahrbuch für Regionalwissenschaft, Springer;Gesellschaft für Regionalforschung (GfR), vol. 41(2), pages 229-268, October.
    3. Giacomo Becattini, 2002. "Industrial Sectors and Industrial Districts: Tools for Industrial Analysis," European Planning Studies, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 10(4), pages 483-493, June.
    4. Giacomo Becattini & Marco Bellandi & Lisa De Propis (ed.), 2009. "A Handbook of Industrial Districts," Books, Edward Elgar Publishing, number 12736.
    5. Roberto Dellisanti, 2023. "Spatial patterns of Cultural and Creative Industries: Creativity and filière behind concentration," Papers in Regional Science, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 102(3), pages 533-564, June.
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