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Increasing entrepreneurs through green industrial parks: evidence from special economic zones in China

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Listed:
  • Weizeng Sun

    (Central University of Finance and Economics)

  • Jianfeng Wu

    (Fudan University)

  • Hongchang Yang

    (Central University of Finance and Economics)

Abstract

In this study, a quasi-experiment of the special economic zones (SEZs) in China was conducted to explore whether green industrial parks play a role in enhancing local entrepreneurship. A household-level panel dataset of 9-year data across counties was built to compare the effects of green and non-green SEZs on the participation of local residents in entrepreneurial activities in a difference-in-differences (DID) setting. According to the empirical results, SEZs can promote local entrepreneurial activities, and such effects are more evident for green ones. An examination of the channels was conducted to reveal that SEZs have an entrepreneurial impact by reducing financial constraints, creating a connection between customers and suppliers, and spreading knowledge. Green SEZs were found to promote entrepreneurship mainly by reducing financial constraints and spreading knowledge.

Suggested Citation

  • Weizeng Sun & Jianfeng Wu & Hongchang Yang, 2024. "Increasing entrepreneurs through green industrial parks: evidence from special economic zones in China," The Annals of Regional Science, Springer;Western Regional Science Association, vol. 72(2), pages 287-312, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:anresc:v:72:y:2024:i:2:d:10.1007_s00168-022-01200-3
    DOI: 10.1007/s00168-022-01200-3
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • D13 - Microeconomics - - Household Behavior - - - Household Production and Intrahouse Allocation
    • O14 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Industrialization; Manufacturing and Service Industries; Choice of Technology
    • Q01 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - General - - - Sustainable Development

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