Addressing uneven development through state-steered intercity cooperation? Insights from Shenzhen–Ganzhou cooperation plan-making

Attention being paid to the implications of intercity networks on uneven development is increasing. To inform the discussion, this study examines China’s state-steered matching programme that is characterised by ‘forming city networks under hierarchy’. By investigating the interactive dynamics of the plan-making process and the nature of the collaboration plan generated under the particular institutional arrangement, we argue that the presence of the nation-state and the ‘left-behind’ city’s proactive strategies are important to ensure commitment from the developed city and thus make the cooperation plan fulfil both parties’ needs. We conclude by discussing the potential mechanisms and implications of the state-steered matching programme on addressing uneven development.