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Double-edged effects of the technology gap and technology spillovers: Evidence from the Chinese industrial sector

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  • Lai, Mingyong
  • Wang, Hua
  • Zhu, Shujin

Abstract

This paper proposes a new insight that the technology gap plays double-edged roles in the technology spillovers of foreign direct investment (FDI) through two channels, technology choice set and technology absorptive capability. Applying a multiple-threshold model, we examine the non-linear relationship between the technology gap and technology spillovers based on the provincial panel data of the Chinese industrial sector during 1993-2006. The empirical results support the hypothesis of two thresholds, which are 0.3071 and 0.5214 in terms of the technology gap respectively. The estimated thresholds indicate the sufficient absorptive capability is the premise for FDI technology spillovers. Moreover, it implies the marginal decrease of FDI technology spillover effects in the long run.

Suggested Citation

  • Lai, Mingyong & Wang, Hua & Zhu, Shujin, 2009. "Double-edged effects of the technology gap and technology spillovers: Evidence from the Chinese industrial sector," China Economic Review, Elsevier, vol. 20(3), pages 414-424, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:chieco:v:20:y:2009:i:3:p:414-424
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    6. Ying Wang & Xiangyu Mao & Hashim Zameer, 2022. "Designing benefit distribution driven innovation strategy for local enterprises under the global value chain system," Managerial and Decision Economics, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 43(6), pages 2358-2373, September.
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    8. Mengzhen Wang & Baekryul Choi, 2023. "An Analysis of the Impact of International R&D Spillovers and Technology Innovation in China," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(3), pages 1-25, January.
    9. Bin Ni, 2016. "Productivity Gap and Vertical Spillover: Evidence from Vietnam," Discussion Papers in Economics and Business 16-04, Osaka University, Graduate School of Economics.
    10. Zhang, Gupeng & Lv, Xiaofeng & Zhou, Jianghua, 2014. "Private value of patent right and patent infringement: An empirical study based on patent renewal data of China," China Economic Review, Elsevier, vol. 28(C), pages 37-54.
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