Regional Differences, Temporal Evolution, and Drivers of Rural Hollowing in Coastal Provinces: A Case Study of Fujian Province

Abstract

This research delves into the spatial and temporal evolution characteristics of rural areas, focusing on understanding the phenomenon of rural hollowing in Fujian Province and other coastal regions. By analyzing data from the Fujian Province Statistical Yearbook and the Social Development and National Economy Statistical Bulletin (2010–2020), employing methodologies such as Pearson correlation and the natural interruption point method in ArcGIS, this study seeks to provide both theoretical and practical groundwork for rural revitalization efforts. The findings of this study yield significant insights. Firstly, a pronounced geographical differentiation emerges in the context of rural hollowing in Fujian province, characterized by a distinctive “high inland and low coastal” spatial pattern. Secondly, despite its coastal location, Fujian Province continues to confront substantial rural hollowing challenges. Although the overall pace of rural hollowing development has been moderate, the persistence of population and economic hollowing is noteworthy. Consequently, the issues of depopulation and economic decline in rural areas remain pressing concerns for Fujian Province. Lastly, the investigation identifies key driving forces behind the phenomenon of rural hollowing, encompassing factors such as arable land area, rural population settlement rate, economic development level, and farmers’ net income. These drivers significantly influence the dynamics of rural hollowing. Drawing from the research findings, this study proposes several strategic recommendations to counteract rural hollowing in coastal regions. These include tailoring management approaches to address geographical disparities, enhancing resource allocation and land utilization practices, orchestrating shifts in industrial structure to foster integrated urban–rural development, and emphasizing the revitalization of talent to sustain the progress of rural areas.