Polycentricity and technological diversification: divergent pathways across Chinese urban regions

Abstract

This paper examines how polycentricity shapes technological diversification in Chinese urban regions. Beyond morphological and functional dimensions, we introduce knowledge polycentricity, reflecting the balance of innovation across technological domains. Using patent data (2006–20), diversification is measured via relative relatedness density and estimated through fixed-effects and instrumental variable models. Findings highlight intra-regional functional polycentricity as the main driver, while other dimensions mainly act through interactions. Developmental heterogeneity produces distinct diversification pathways. Results call for innovation policies tailored to polycentricity characteristics and diversification strategies.