Innovation policy and local cluster of entrepreneurs in South China

Abstract

This paper presents an analysis of Chinas industrial development policy, through the example of Guangdong, a southern region of China. We recall the local economic dynamics in its historical and geographical context, and the emergence of firms (private or otherwise) in this region, the creation of industrial centres, the orientation of the national industrial and innovation policy, and its translation into policies that promote local industry clusters. We present the contradictions between the macro policy, and the establishment of private entrepreneurs and find that local officials interpret state policies to promote regional innovation and develop links between private entrepreneurs and the macro business environment.