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The Transformation of the Clothing Industry in China

Author

Listed:
  • Miao ZHANG

    (Department of Development Studies, University of Malaya)

  • Xin Xin KONG

    (Chinese Academy of Science and Technology for Development)

  • Santha Chenayah RAMU

    (Department of Economics, University of Malaya)

Abstract

This article examines the transformation of clothing manufacturing in China with a focus on institutional support, technological upgrading and global production chains. The evidence shows that reforms and integration into global production chains has rapidly expanded China’s exports but it has also driven the relocation abroad of Chinese clothing firms. Global integration has motivated clothing firms to upgrade through learning, adoption and innovation. Hence, despite improvements in technological capabilities the share of clothing value-added in manufacturing has gradually declined. Also, China has increasingly faced industrial structural change from clothing to the capital goods, real estate and high tech sectors.

Suggested Citation

  • Miao ZHANG & Xin Xin KONG & Santha Chenayah RAMU, 2015. "The Transformation of the Clothing Industry in China," Working Papers DP-2015-12, Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA).
    • Handle: RePEc:era:wpaper:dp-2015-12
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. T. Sonobe & D. Hu & K. Otsuka, 2002. "Process of Cluster Formation in China: A Case Study of a Garment Town," Journal of Development Studies, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 39(1), pages 118-139.
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    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    China; clothing; global integration; production networks; technological upgrading;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • L62 - Industrial Organization - - Industry Studies: Manufacturing - - - Automobiles; Other Transportation Equipment; Related Parts and Equipment
    • L22 - Industrial Organization - - Firm Objectives, Organization, and Behavior - - - Firm Organization and Market Structure
    • L14 - Industrial Organization - - Market Structure, Firm Strategy, and Market Performance - - - Transactional Relationships; Contracts and Reputation
    • O31 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Innovation and Invention: Processes and Incentives

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