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Digital Talent Flow and Economic Growth in Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area: The Spatial Mediation Effect of Industrial Restructuring

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This study examines the impact of digital talent flow on economic growth in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) using the spatial Durbin model and spatial mediation model. Based on panel data analysis from 2003 to 2022, our findings show that first, economic activities cluster in high-growth cities, including Hong Kong, Macau, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen. Second, digital talent flow significantly enhances economic growth and generates positive spatial spillovers through knowledge and technology diffusion. Third, industrial structure upgrading positively mediates this relationship. However, its spatial mediation negatively affects surrounding cities by causing a talent drain. As a policy implication, this study advocates for coordinated industrial restructuring and targeted talent policies to achieve balanced regional development.

Source: Review of Regional Studies

DOI: 10.52324/001c.160107

Authors: Yuanfang Chen, Wee-Yeap Lau, Lim-Thye Goh

Institutions: University of Malaya, Guangdong University of Science and Technology

Language: English

Topic: Regional Economics and Spatial Analysis

Subfield: Economics and Econometrics

Field: Economics, Econometrics and Finance

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Decent work and economic growth, Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: hybrid

OpenAlex ID: W7150727884

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