Economic Productivity Research Articles

Macroeconomic Analysis of Vietnam: Challenges and Policy Recommendations

Vietnam, a one-party socialist republic, has undergone significant economic transformation since the lifting of U.S. sanctions in 1986. Transitioning from a closed, agrarian economy to a market-oriented system, the country has achieved notable progress, advancing from one of the poorest nations to a lower-middle-income status. Despite this progress, Vietnam faces several macroeconomic challenges including high inflation, a depreciating currency, and a growing trade deficit. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these issues, leading to disruptions in business activity, supply chains, and economic instability. Additionally, severe air pollution presents a pressing concern for public health and economic productivity. This paper examines Vietnam's current macroeconomic challenges, evaluates the impact of recent economic disruptions, and proposes policy recommendations to address these issues. Recommendations include increased health spending, structural reforms to enhance green growth, and monetary policies aimed at controlling inflation and encouraging investment. The analysis highlights the need for a balanced approach to sustain economic progress while addressing critical challenges.

Oral health care in Europe: A study with a focus on Romania

Oral health is fundamental to overall health and well-being, closely linked to quality of life, social equity, and economic productivity. This comprehensive study explores the complex landscape of oral health care across Europe, with a particular focus on Romania—a country facing significant oral health challenges. My objective is to provide a thorough examination of oral health disparities, preventive strategies, innovative treatments, and policy recommendations to guide future efforts in improving oral health outcomes. This report aims to serve as an invaluable resource for policymakers, healthcare professionals, and public health advocates dedicated to advancing oral health care across Europe.

Digital Economy Reformulation and Economic Competitiveness of Smart Cities: An Application of Soft Systems Methodology

Smart cities have become a new trend in urban development worldwide, and digital economy plays a crucial role. Therefore, this study aimed to create a novel formulation of digital economy that contributes to improving competitiveness of smart cities and provides practical guidance on digital economy strategies. A Soft System Methodology (SSM)–based action that utilizes the concept of systems was used to investigate conceptual models from different perspectives, from conceptual thinking to real-world–based action. Moreover, Indonesia was selected as a case study due to its extensive implementation of smart cities over the past five years, with over 250 cities participating in the program. The study successfully identified five scopes of digital economy, namely digital technology, digital service, shared economy and platform, digitalized economy, and financial services. It also identified six crucial criteria of economic competitiveness, namely human resources, product offerings, innovation capability, economic productivity, ease of business and investment, as well as financial capital. In conclusion, local cities and regencies' governments need to accelerate digital economy by creating supporting policies, making collaboration, effective digital marketing, improving digital literacy, guaranteeing cyber security, as well as protecting consumers and data privacy.

Evaluation of Traffic Congestion in an Urban Roads: A Review

Abstract: Urban traffic congestion significantly impacts economic productivity, environmental health, and residents' quality of life. This study provides a comprehensive evaluation of traffic congestion in urban areas, focusing on recent innovations in traffic management, urban planning, public transportation, and technological advancements. Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), incorporating real-time data and adaptive signal controls, have proven effective in reducing delays and improving traffic flow. The study underscores the importance of mixed-use urban planning in minimizing travel distances and traffic volumes. Expanding public transportation networks is highlighted as a critical strategy for alleviating congestion, with evidence indicating that cities with extensive transit systems experience lower congestion levels. Additionally, the environmental and health implications of traffic congestion are considered, linking high congestion levels to increased pollution and negative health outcomes. . Road construction as a policy intervention to reduce congestion is debated, with the understanding that road widening may sometimes increase traffic. Evaluating the technologies contributing to congestion is crucial for devising effective solutions. Urban transport is central to economic activity and the well-being of urban residents. The rising population and car ownership rates, coupled with unchanged natural land areas, exacerbate traffic issues, leading to accidents and increased carbon dioxide emissions. The article explores the complexities of urban road traffic, addressing transport infrastructure, organization, and the high share of car traffic. It discusses theoretical and practical aspects of traffic flow and design, as well as the role of driver behavior in traffic jams.

Impact of Immigration Policies on Economic Growth in Germany

Purpose: To aim of the study was to analyze the impact of immigration policies on economic growth in Germany. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: Germany's immigration policies have had a significant impact on its economic growth. These policies have facilitated the influx of skilled labor, which has helped to address the country's demographic challenges, particularly the aging population and labor shortages in key sectors. Immigrants have contributed to the labor market by filling both high-skilled and low-skilled jobs, boosting productivity and innovation. Additionally, immigration has increased consumer demand, further stimulating economic growth. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Human capital theory, dual labor market theory & endogenous growth theory may be used to anchor future studies on the impact of immigration policies on economic growth in Germany. Implement comprehensive language and vocational training programs for refugees and low-skilled immigrants to facilitate their economic integration and productivity. Formulate balanced immigration policies that address sector-specific labor demands without disadvantaging native workers.

The Role of Labor Force, Physical Capital, and Energy Consumption in Shaping Agricultural and Industrial Output in Pakistan

The labor force, physical capital, and energy sources are key economic drivers that enhance the output levels of developing economies. Despite their significance, the impact of these factors on agricultural and industrial output in Pakistan remains underexplored. This study aims to address this gap by examining the effects of the labor force, physical capital, and energy consumption—including electricity, oil, and gas—on agricultural and industrial output. Additionally, we explore the combined effects of electricity and oil consumption on these sectors. Based on unit root test results, which indicate that the variables as either I(0) or I(1), the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) technique is selected. This method is particularly effective for handling mixed integration orders and provides robust estimates in small sample sizes, allowing for a thorough examination of both short- and long-run dynamics. Using annual time-series data from Pakistan for the period 1990–2022, the empirical results reveal that higher levels of the labor force, physical capital, electricity consumption, oil consumption, and gas consumption significantly increase agricultural and industrial output in both the short and long run. Furthermore, the findings reveal that the combined effect of electricity and oil consumption has a stronger impact on agricultural and industrial output compared to their individual effects. These results are further validated using alternative econometric techniques such as DOLS and FMOLS. To enhance Pakistan’s agricultural and industrial performance, policies should prioritize investment in human capital and physical capital development, ensure reliable and efficient energy supplies, and promote integrated energy management strategies. These steps are crucial for fostering sustainable economic growth and productivity in both sectors.

Assessment of irrigation performance trends using selected comparative indicators over consecutive periods: A case study of the Koga Irrigation Scheme in the Amhara region, Ethiopia

AbstractThe Koga Irrigation Scheme is a modern irrigation scheme in Ethiopia, and furrow irrigation is a common water application method. The main purpose of this study is to show in which year it performed well and what the problems were and to identify the best alternatives that may be essential for managing the scheme effectively and efficiently. The performance trends of the Koga Irrigation Scheme were evaluated using four selected performance indicators, namely, physical, agricultural, water use and economic performance indicators. Primary and secondary data, including geographic locations, water supply, harvested yield, market prices, irrigated crops, actual irrigated area, planned irrigable area, total management and operation cost, water fees and historical climate data, were collected. Land use performance analysis indicates that the scheme operates below its potential. The maximum irrigated area was 6,327.7 ha less than the designed 7,000 ha in 2015 and 3,619.9 ha in 2016. Water consumption peaked in 2015 and decreased in 2016. The dominant crops were wheat (55%), potato (19%), barley (7.6%), onion (7.4%), maize (5.6%) and other crops (5.4%). This suggests a preference for low‐value, water‐intensive crops. Water use by crops is lower than reservoir release, indicating significant water loss. Economic water productivity is low, primarily due to the dominance of low‐value, water‐intensive crops. To enhance scheme performance, the study recommends adjusting cropping patterns, estimating actual water demand for the respective crops and irrigation scheduling, adopting efficient water application methods and strengthening the market chain.

‘Firm but fair’? Migrant children’s rights through dramaturgy and nation branding in Norway and the UK

Applying nation branding literature and the work of Erving Goffman on dramaturgy to the situation of asylum-seeking children in Norway and in the UK, this paper develops a comparative framework for understanding why child rights appear to be de-prioritised in the current climate of ‘migration control’. The paper identifies historically grounded differential approaches towards child rights and children in the two countries, which currently appear to merge into a common trajectory of migration control, framed in terms of national security and economic productivity. It explores similar tensions in both countries between the discourses of national migration management on the one hand and children's welfare and rights on the other. It finds that universal rights which should protect the welfare of all children are limited and fragmented by ideas of nationalism and foreignness. Despite a more robust legal framework for child rights, Norway is on a similar pathway as the UK; a worrying indictment of how nations fulfil their obligations towards children.

Motivating factors affecting formalization of small informal enterprises: Evidence from an emerging economy

AbstractThis study investigates the motivating factors behind the formalization of small informal enterprises in Bangladesh, an emerging economy, employing the lens of institutional theory. It emphasizes how regulatory structures, normative pressures, and cognitive understandings shape the decisions of SME owners in emerging economies like Bangladesh. A significant portion of small enterprises in Bangladesh remain informal, leading to concerns over economic development, productivity, and efficiency. Informal enterprises often face challenges such as limited access to finance, market entry barriers, and regulatory hurdles. Recognizing the need for formalization, this research aims to understand the drivers behind this transition. A questionnaire survey of 304 informal enterprises reveals that streamlined regulatory systems, particularly one‐stop solutions and simplified registration processes, are primary motivators for formalization. Additionally, flexible collateral requirements for financing and lower levels of technological adoption also significantly influence this transition. These findings contribute to the academic discourse on informal businesses in emerging economies and provide key policy implications for fostering formalization through targeted strategies and policies.

Agricultural Economic Water Productivity Differences across Counties in the Colorado River Basin

This study estimates the relative contribution of different factors to the wide variation in agricultural economic water productivity (EWP) across Colorado River Basin counties. It updates EWP measures for Basin counties using more detailed, localized data for the Colorado River mainstem. Using the Schwarz Bayesian Information Criterion for variable selection, regression analysis and productivity accounting methods identified factors contributing to EWP differences. The EWP was USD 1033 (USD 2023)/acre foot (af) for Lower Basin Counties on the U.S.–Mexico Border, USD 729 (USD 2023)/af for other Lower Basin Counties, and USD 168 (USD 2023)/af for Upper Basin Counties. Adoption rates for improved irrigation technologies showed little inter-county variation and so did not have a statistically significant impact on EWP. Counties with the lowest EWP consumed 25% of the Basin’s agricultural water (>2.3 million af) to generate 3% of the Basin’s crop revenue. Low populations/remoteness and more irrigated acreage per farm were negatively associated with EWP. Warmer winter temperatures and greater July humidity were positively associated with EWP. When controlling for other factors, being on the Border increased a county’s EWP by USD 570 (2023 USD)/af. Border Counties have greater access to labor from Mexico, enabling greater production of high-value, labor-intensive specialty crops.

DAMPAK CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY PT. UPC SIDRAP BAYU ENERGI TERHADAP PENINGKATAN KESEJAHTERAAN MASYARAKAT DI KABUPATEN SIDENRENG RAPPANG

Community empowerment is one of the efforts made to improve community welfare. This effort can be carried out through various approaches, one of which is Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), a program that focuses on community and environmental empowerment as a form of social responsibility for companies located in a region. This research aims to determine the impact of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs implemented by PT UPC Sidrap Bayu Energi in improving community welfare in Sidenreng Rappang Regency. This is qualitative research with a field research approach to observe the impact of PT UPC Sidrap Bayu Energi's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program on community welfare in Sidenreng Rappang Regency. The data in the research were collected through interviews with PT UPC Sidrap Bayu Energi and residents in Pabberesseng Hamlet as beneficiaries. The results of this research indicate that the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program implemented by PT UPC Sidrap Bayu Energi succeeded in achieving 85% of their goal and provided significant benefits to the community in Sidenreng Rappang Regency. CSR programs such as providing clean water, solar electricity, road repairs, playground construction, and school sanitation have contributed to improving the health, economic productivity, and quality of life of the community.

Does The Consumption of Energy, Renewable Energy, Natural Resources and Emissions Affect Gross Domestic Product?: The Study of Southeast Asia

We face the challenges of economic growth productivity which still uses dirty energy and minimal efforts to cleaner energy transition. The debate on efforts to increase productivity by diverting dirty energy into clean energy while still preserving nature has long been discused. Southeast Asia is a region that has massive development potential with valuable natural resources facing regional threats in addition to decreasing environmental quality but also prosperity. This study aims to identify initial steps are needed to control energy consumption, which is still considered dirty, the extent of the scope of Southeast Asia's current clean energy transition and how emissions can be a determinant of the decline in regional economic produtivity. This is the first study to combine the Cobb-Douglass production function model with three models that focus on (1) energy consumption, (2) renewable energy and natural resources, and (3) emissions. The data used is secondary data for the period 2004-2018 sourced from the World Bank Development Indicator and ourworlddata.org. Panel data regression was used as an analytical technique. This study was conducted in the Southeast Asia region (with selected countries with developing economies and insutries, namely Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines and Vietnam). The results of this study show that in the energy consumption model, only labor has a significant effect on GDP, in model B there is renewable energy consumption and the labor force which significantly affects GDP and in model C there are CO2 emissions and GHC emissions that affect GDP in the Southeast Asia region. This research will provide input to policy makers and growth analysts to form policies for sustainable economic development in Southeast Asia.

Closed-Loop Recyclable Poly(ester-disulfide)s for Potential Alternatives to Engineering Plastic.

Facile fabrication, low material complexity and closed-loop recycling are essential for polymer plastics to alter their linear product economy towards a cradle-to-cradle one. Covalent adaptable networks (CANs) are one way to achieve that, which intrinsically exhibit decent mechanical properties like the thermosets but could also be easily recycled like the thermoplastics. In this work, we introduce rigid ester structural motifs into dynamic poly(disulfide)s to form a series of dual polymer networks. Owning to the coherence of soft/rigid segments and the reversible sacrificial crosslinking, they exhibit tailorable mechanical properties and good resistance towards different chemicals. Their closed-loop recycling is achieved via mild solvolysis, maintaining materials' mechanical integrities. It offers a solution as a sustainable replacement for engineering plastics which are massively under production but hard to be recycled.

Examining the Impact of Certificate of Need Laws on the Utilization and Reimbursement of Cataract Surgeries Among Medicare Beneficiaries.

Background: Cataract surgery is an effective and commonly utilized procedure and can significantly improve quality of life and restore economic productivity. Certificate of need (CON) laws aim to regulate healthcare facility expansion and equipment acquisition to curtail costs, enhance quality, and ensure equitable access to care. However, little is known about the impact of CON laws on cataract surgery utilization and reimbursement. Objectives: To compare utilization and reimbursement for non-complex cataract surgery in CON and non-CON states. Methods: This retrospective database review analyzed publicly available data from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services from 2017 to 2021 to identify the Medicare beneficiaries who underwent non-complex cataract surgery using Current Procedural Terminology code 66984 in Medicare outpatient hospitals. Utilization and reimbursement patterns were analyzed in states with and without CON laws using the compound annual growth rate, with reimbursement adjusted by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Price Index. Results: The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services reported 893 682 non-complex cataract surgeries in the study period; of these, 609 237 were in CON and 280 215 in non-CON states. Inflation-adjusted reimbursement increased in both CON (1.17%) and non-CON (1.83%) states, while the reimbursement in non-CON states was greater than the national average adjusted reimbursement (1.67%). Utilization of non-complex cataract surgery declined during the study period in both CON and non-CON states. A larger decline in utilization was observed in CON states (-7.32%) than in non-CON states (-6.49%). Utilization was slightly higher in non-CON than in CON states for each year except 2019. Discussion: Utilization of non-complex cataract surgery by Medicare beneficiaries declined over the study period in both CON and non-CON states, possibly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Inflation-adjusted reimbursement adjusted for Consumer Price Index increased more in non-CON than CON states, possibly reflecting shifts in market dynamics in CON-regulated states. Conclusions: Surgeons and policymakers should consider the implications of CON laws on the utilization and reimbursement of cataract surgery. Further study is necessary to ascertain whether these trends persist beyond 2021.

Effects of alcohol abuse on involvement of youth in productive economic activities in Baringo Central Sub-County, Kenya

This study sought to analyse the effects of alcohol abuse on youth involvement in productive economic activities in Baringo's central sub-county, Kenya. The issue of alcohol abuse among youth is pervasive globally, with approximately 30 per cent of adolescents engaging in binge drinking, leading to severe consequences for health systems, economic productivity, and social stability. In Baringo Central Sub-County, approximately 40 per cent of the youth engage in regular alcohol consumption, presenting a critical public health issue. This study aimed to assess the effects of alcohol abuse on youth involvement in productive economic activities, including crop farming, animal herding, entrepreneurial activities, and formal employment. The researchers utilised a cross-sectional descriptive research design to collect data from youth aged 18-35 using structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews. The findings revealed that 66 per cent of respondents reported missed farming deadlines, 69 per cent indicated neglect of livestock, 69 per cent of young entrepreneurs reported reduced motivation, and 70 per cent of respondents in formal employment reported increased absenteeism due to alcohol abuse. These results underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions such as comprehensive awareness programs, enhanced access to rehabilitation services, and stricter regulations on alcohol sales to address alcohol abuse and support the socio-economic development of youth in Baringo Central Sub-County. The study contributes valuable insights into the socio-economic effects of alcohol abuse, informing policymakers and stakeholders about the necessary measures to mitigate these impacts and promote sustainable development.

Assessing Groundwater Use Efficiency and Productivity across Punjab Agriculture: District and Farm Size Perspectives

While previous studies have focused on the technical aspects of groundwater extraction and optimal cropping patterns, there is a notable lack of research on the socio-economic factors affecting groundwater access and agricultural productivity, especially at a micro-level in Punjab, India. This study, therefore, investigates the water use efficiency (WUE) and economic water productivity (EWP) of paddy and wheat crops across diverse farm sizes and districts in Punjab, offering critical insights into agricultural water management. The study is based on primary data from Punjab, India, with Sangrur, Jalandhar, Pathankot, and Bathinda districts selected for groundwater profile analysis via multistage random sampling of 246 farmers. Notably, Punjab exhibits high EWP for wheat, surpassing the national average. However, disparities exist across districts, emphasizing the importance of localized interventions. Larger farms consistently demonstrate higher WUE and EWP, underlining the significance of scale in optimizing water inputs. Factors such as farm size, crop variety, and regional variations significantly influence WUE and EWP. Tailored approaches for marginal farmers and districts with lower efficiency are crucial for promoting sustainable agricultural practices. The findings underscore the need for targeted policy interventions to enhance water use efficiency and productivity in Punjab’s agriculture sector.

Constructing and Validating Estimation Models for Individual-Tree Aboveground Biomass of Salix suchowensis in China

Biomass serves as a crucial indicator of plant productivity, and the development of biomass models has become an efficient way for estimating tree biomass production rapidly and accurately. This study aimed to develop a rapid and accurate model to estimate the individual aboveground biomass of Salix suchowensis. Growth parameters, including plant height (PH), ground diameter (GD), number of first branches (NFB), number of second branches (NSB) and aboveground fresh biomass weight (FW), were measured from 892 destructive sample trees. Correlation analysis indicated that GD had higher positive correlations with FW than PH, NFB and NSB. According to the biological features and field observations of S. suchowensis, the samples were classified into three categories: single-stemmed type, first-branched type and second-branched type. Based on the field measurement data, regression models were constructed separately between FW and each growth trait (PH, GD, NFB and NSB) using linear and nonlinear regression functions (linear, exponential and power). Then, multiple power regression and multiple linear regression were conducted to estimate the fresh biomass of three types of S. suchowensis. For the single-stemmed plant type, model M1 with GD as the single parameter had the highest adj R2, outperforming the other models. Among the 16 constructed biomass-estimating equations for the first-branched plant type, model M32 FW = 0.010371 × PH1.15862 × GD1.250581 × NFB0.190707 was found to have the best fit, with the highest coefficient of determination (adj R2 = 0.6627) and lowest Akaike Information Criterion (AIC = 5997.3081). When it comes to the second-branched plant type, the best-fitting equation was proved to be the multiple power model M43 with PH, GD, NFB and NSB as parameters, which had the highest adj R2 value and best-fitting effect. The stability and reliability of the models were confirmed by the F-test, repeated k-fold cross-validation and paired-sample t-tests. The models developed in this study could provide efficient tools for accurately estimating the total aboveground biomass for S. suchowensis at individual tree levels. The results of this study could also be useful for optimizing the economic productivity of shrub willow plantations.

Environmental Protection Tax Reform in China: A Catalyst or a Barrier to Total Factor Productivity? An Analysis through a Quasi-Natural Experiment

China’s 2018 environmental protection tax (EPT) reform was introduced in response to increasing concerns about environmental degradation. It aimed to use fiscal policy to enhance environmental governance while fostering economic productivity. This study employs a difference-in-differences approach to analyze panel data from publicly listed companies between 2009 and 2019. It examines the reform’s influence on total factor productivity (TFP) in pollution-intensive industries, addressing both environmental and economic objectives. The results reveal that the tax reform significantly enhances TFP, acting as a robust catalyst for economic growth rather than a barrier. This effect is particularly strong in state-owned enterprises and those with less-severe financing constraints. Mechanism analysis indicates that the reform boosts TFP through the promotion of green innovations and alleviation of financing constraints. These findings provide empirical evidence at the micro-level of the reform’s efficacy in promoting sustainable business practices. The study offers insights for future environmental tax policies in China and underscores the necessity of aligning environmental and economic strategies to achieve sustainable development.

Knowledge, attitude, and practices related to lead pollution among adolescents and caregivers of young children living near Used Lead Acid Battery (ULAB) recycling sites in Bangladesh: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundLead, a potent neurotoxin, causes irreversible damage to the nervous system, and low- and middle-income countries face huge health and economic productivity losses due to childhood lead exposure. In Bangladesh, informal Used Lead Acid Battery (ULAB) recycling sites are an important source of lead pollution. Little is known about lead awareness among communities exposed to ULAB recycling. Therefore, this study aims to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to lead pollution among caregivers of young children and adolescents living adjacent to informal ULAB sites.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among 732 mothers of young children and adolescents in 4 districts of Bangladesh (survey and observation). Simple and multiple linear regression was conducted to describe patterns and predictors of lead-related knowledge and practices.Results60% of respondents had heard the name ‘lead’ (“shisha”). The mean knowledge score was low (19 out of 44). Residents of high-risk districts, male respondents, and those with more than 5 years of schooling were significantly more likely to have higher knowledge scores than others. In terms of attitude, 52% of respondents perceived lead to be risky for human health but 43% thought lead pollution was controllable. Observation of households for lead exposure revealed that 63% of children and adolescents play or pass by ULAB sites, 29% ate non-food items, 41% of households had visible paint chips on the walls, 59% households used polished turmeric and 15% used lead-soldered cans to store foods. Among protective practices, 70% reported cleaning floors, 84% consumed iron-rich foods, and 48% consumed calcium-rich foods.ConclusionsThe population had a high potential for lead exposure. Their knowledge about lead was limited, and risk perception was moderate. To reduce lead exposure and increase knowledge and awareness among the at-risk population, it is crucial to take measures such as mass awareness campaigns through media and schools. It is important to strengthen the implementation of existing policies, such as policies on leaded gasoline, paints, and lead-acid batteries, that can address the sources of lead exposure for the community.

Green economic efficiency and productivity for sustainable development in China: A ray epsilon-based measure model analysis

Improving green economic efficiency (GEE) and productivity are crucial for China to realize sustainable development goals. However, the economic growth of China has followed an extensive development model with high energy consumption and heavy pollution. This study conducts data envelopment analysis (DEA) to evaluate the GEE of China. First, we introduce the polar coordinates theory in the epsilon-based measure (EBM) model to construct a Ray epsilon-based measure (REBM) model. In addition to the merits of EBM model, the REBM model accounts for the weak disposable relationship between undesirable and desirable outputs. Second, based on REBM model, a REBM-Malmquist-Luenberger (REBM-ML) index is constructed to evaluate the green total factor productivity (GTFP). Finally, we conduct spatial econometric analysis to reveal the dynamic evolution of GTFP. According to the empirical results, the GEE of China is generally low, and the urban agglomerations located at coastal regions own higher GEE. However, the GTFP made progress overall, mainly benefited from the technical progress. Accordingly, in the process of sustainable development, China still faces the challenge of energy saving and emission reduction. The spatial econometric analysis reveals that the GTFP of China existed a significant divergence trend and there was spatial spillover effect between cities, as well as urban agglomerations. Furthermore, we provide policy implications and suggestions for Chinese sustainable development.