The localization of electronics manufacturing in the Greater Pearl River Delta, China: Do global implants put down local roots?

Against the background of a recent shift in growth dynamics from export-oriented activities towards the domestic market in Chinese regions, it is the aim of this paper to demonstrate how the spatial organization of the electronics industry in Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta has evolved over time and to assess the impact of the institutional setting and differences between Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta on localization and upgrading of the industry. The empirical findings suggest a strong trend towards the localization of business activities in China and a differentiated perspective regarding the kinds of activities that are more likely to be localized. An advanced front shop, back factory model with complementary, but intertwined assets has been identified. The institutional interpretation of spatial processes has proven its potential to further develop contextually sensitive concepts for the economic geography of China.

► Business activities in the Greater Pearl River Delta are strongly clustered spatially.
► Institutional differences between Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta determine the division of work.
► Institutional change in the Pearl River Delta allows for upgrading of firm activities.