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Dynamics of regional knowledge creation and inter-city R&D collaboration in China: evidence from an empirical agent-based simulation model

Author

Listed:
  • Martina Neuländtner

    (AIT Austrian Institute of Technology GmbH)

  • Thomas Scherngell

    (AIT Austrian Institute of Technology GmbH)

  • Xielin Liu

    (University of Chinese Academy of Sciences
    Capital University of Economics and Business)

  • Xiaohui Ji

    (University of Chinese Academy of Sciences)

  • Xuechen Ding

    (Beijing Technology and Business University)

  • Manfred Paier

    (AIT Austrian Institute of Technology GmbH)

Abstract

The objective of this study is to simulate the dynamic relationships between regional knowledge creation and inter-city R&D collaboration in China. We contribute to the scarce literature using empirically driven agent-based simulation for modelling regional knowledge creation. We provide original evidence for China creating a better understanding of the underlying micro-dynamics that shape regional knowledge creation rather than on aggregate levels (countries or larger regions). We demonstrate that collaboration produces higher knowledge gains at the system level, but benefits differ across Chinese cities. Moreover, technology-specific knowledge gains from collaborations depend on place-based factors locally moderating collaboration benefits in specific technologies.

Suggested Citation

  • Martina Neuländtner & Thomas Scherngell & Xielin Liu & Xiaohui Ji & Xuechen Ding & Manfred Paier, 2025. "Dynamics of regional knowledge creation and inter-city R&D collaboration in China: evidence from an empirical agent-based simulation model," The Annals of Regional Science, Springer;Western Regional Science Association, vol. 74(3), pages 1-45, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:anresc:v:74:y:2025:i:3:d:10.1007_s00168-025-01402-5
    DOI: 10.1007/s00168-025-01402-5
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • O31 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Innovation and Invention: Processes and Incentives
    • R11 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - General Regional Economics - - - Regional Economic Activity: Growth, Development, Environmental Issues, and Changes
    • C63 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Mathematical Methods; Programming Models; Mathematical and Simulation Modeling - - - Computational Techniques
    • R58 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - Regional Government Analysis - - - Regional Development Planning and Policy

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