Navigating Environmental Governance in China’s Hog Sector: Unraveling the “Race to the Bottom” Phenomenon and Spatial Dynamics

Xue Zheng, Ying Tan () and Dasheng Li
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Xue Zheng: South China Agricultural University
Ying Tan: South China Agricultural University
Dasheng Li: South China Agricultural University

Journal of the Knowledge Economy, 2025, vol. 16, issue 2, No 30, 6765-6802

Abstract: Abstract Environmental pollution in China, especially water pollution stemming from livestock and poultry manure, remains a critical challenge. This study delves into the complexities of the hog sector, exploring the “race to the bottom” phenomenon in environmental regulation among provinces. Focusing on the Pearl River Basin, spatial econometric models are employed to analyze the impact of environmental regulations on hog production in border counties from 2010 to 2017. Contrary to conventional assumptions, the study reveals a concentration of hog production in provincial border counties, challenging prior research. The “race to the bottom” strategy is identified, indicating inefficient environmental regulation efforts. Water quality data supports the finding that border county governments prioritize economic development over pollution control. Theoretical implications of the study underscore the need to shift the focus from industrial to agricultural environmental regulation, offering a novel perspective on the “symbolic implementation” of regulations in administrative border areas. The spatial analyses reveal previously understudied correlations, deepening our understanding of the spatial dimensions of environmental regulation. The findings contribute to a more comprehensive grasp of knowledge dynamics in environmental governance, spanning organizations, industries, nations, and regions. Policy implications highlight the identification of “pollution havens” and the importance of coordinated inter-regional efforts in environmental governance. The study calls for a reassessment of the “race to the bottom” phenomenon, urging policymakers to prioritize substantive compliance over symbolic gestures. Additionally, the research emphasizes the need to fine-tune monitoring and enforcement mechanisms for environmental regulations within the agricultural sector to ensure tangible improvements in environmental quality.

Keywords: Environmental regulation; Agricultural pollution; Spatial econometric models; Water quality; Sustainable agricultural development; Pollution spillover; Environmental institutions (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1007/s13132-024-01800-8

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