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Study on Spatial Differentiation of Digital Economy and It’s Driving Factors in China: Based on Geodetector

Author

Listed:
  • Xiaolong Zhang

    (Institute of Western China Economic Research, Southwestern University of Finance and Economics, Chengdu 611130, China)

  • Renzhong Ding

    (Institute of Western China Economic Research, Southwestern University of Finance and Economics, Chengdu 611130, China
    School of Economics, Southwestern University of Finance and Economics, Chengdu 611130, China)

  • Wei Yang

    (School of Economics and Management, Xichang University, Xichang 615000, China)

Abstract

The imbalance in the development of the digital economy hinders the effective formation of economies of scale and synergies, thereby constraining the high-quality growth of China’s overall economy. This study employs panel data from 31 Chinese provinces spanning 2013 to 2021, using exploratory spatial data analysis (ESDA) and the Geodetector to investigate the spatial differentiation characteristics and driving factors of China’s digital economy. The findings reveal a gradient pattern of digital economy development, decreasing from east to central, west, and northeast China, with high-value clusters concentrated and spatially locked in the eastern region. Analysis of the gravity center and standard deviation ellipse indicates a spatial distribution dynamic of “longitudinal clustering and lateral expansion”, with a significant “westward migration” of the gravity center. Spatial disparities are driven by both inter-regional and intra-regional differences, with discrepancies between the eastern region and the other three regions being the primary source of spatial variation. The Geodetector analysis identifies human capital, foreign direct investment, and R&D expenditure as the main factors contributing to the spatial-temporal differentiation of China’s digital economy. Last, the study offers policy recommendations regarding infrastructure, resource allocation, and institutional mechanisms to promote balanced development of the digital economy in China.

Suggested Citation

  • Xiaolong Zhang & Renzhong Ding & Wei Yang, 2024. "Study on Spatial Differentiation of Digital Economy and It’s Driving Factors in China: Based on Geodetector," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(23), pages 1-21, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:23:p:10472-:d:1532678
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. LIU Jiaqi & RU Shaofeng, 2022. "How Digital Economy Affects High-Quality Economic Development: Based on International Comparison," Frontiers of Economics in China-Selected Publications from Chinese Universities, Higher Education Press, vol. 17(1), pages 87-103, March.
    2. Wang, Dong & Zhao, Yi & Liu, Hainan, 2024. "Higher education, population mobility, and the development of the digital economy," Finance Research Letters, Elsevier, vol. 69(PA).
    3. Chenhui Ding & Chao Liu & Chuiyong Zheng & Feng Li, 2021. "Digital Economy, Technological Innovation and High-Quality Economic Development: Based on Spatial Effect and Mediation Effect," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(1), pages 1-21, December.
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