Spatiotemporal Evolution of the Coupling-Coordinated Development of Digital Factors and Rural–Industrial Integration

Xingmei Jia and Tingting Zhu ()
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Xingmei Jia: School of Business, Anhui University of Technology, Ma’anshan 243032, China
Tingting Zhu: School of Business, Anhui University of Technology, Ma’anshan 243032, China

Sustainability, 2024, vol. 16, issue 22, 1-37

Abstract: China’s agricultural development is challenged by delays in digital transformation. Understanding the alignment and trends of digital factors with rural–industrial integration is crucial for advancing agricultural digitalization. This study analyzes data from several Chinese provinces (2013–2021) using the entropy-weighted TOPSIS method to assess digital factors and rural–industrial integration levels. A coupling coordination model evaluates their interplay over time, and a center of gravity analysis along with the Dagum Gini system investigates their spatial distribution and divergence. The results show that from 2013 to 2021, digital factors and rural–industrial integration exhibited fluctuating trends. Provinces with higher levels were predominantly in the eastern region, which also had advanced digital transformation. There was a high level of interaction between these elements, especially in the eastern region. By 2021, the coupling index ranged from 0.9 to 1 across all provinces. Coordination generally remained low, with the eastern region showing medium-level high coordination, the central region low-level high coordination, and the western region high-level moderate coordination. Spatial analysis indicates a southwestward trend in the development of digital factors and rural–industrial integration. The epicenter is shifting towards the southern coastal regions, with regional disparities widening. Inter-regional disparities are diminishing annually, while intra-regional disparities are increasing, highlighting significant coupling and coordination effects. To enhance rural–industrial integration, digital strategies that meet the unique needs of rural industries are essential, fostering innovation and leveraging technological advancements effectively.

Keywords: digital factors; rural–industrial integration; coupling and coordinated development; spatial–temporal evolution (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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