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Inequality and Economic Growth: The Effect of Urban-Rural Roads Construction in China

Author

Listed:
  • Liang Yuan
  • Haokuang Li
  • Zhimin Jia
  • Yunjun Xiong
  • Lei Xu

Abstract

This study investigates the effect of urban-rural roads construction on inequality. As the main roads connecting urban and rural areas, the urban-rural roads have greatly influenced the economic growth and poverty alleviation in rural areas. We collect the data of urban-rural roads from 2003 to 2021 and matched with the income inequality and night light intensity data, we find that the impact of urban-rural roads construction on inequality between urban and rural areas will first increase and then rebound, showcasing an inverted U-shaped curve. Further analysis shows that the inverted U-shaped trend could be attributed to the economic growth gap between urban and rural areas. The results in this study provide evidence that a developing country such as China could enhance urban-rural roads construction to reduce inequality between urban and rural areas.

Suggested Citation

  • Liang Yuan & Haokuang Li & Zhimin Jia & Yunjun Xiong & Lei Xu, 2025. "Inequality and Economic Growth: The Effect of Urban-Rural Roads Construction in China," Journal of Development Studies, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 61(2), pages 272-293, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:jdevst:v:61:y:2025:i:2:p:272-293
    DOI: 10.1080/00220388.2024.2388095
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