Spatial Correlation Network and Influencing Factors of Industrial System Modernization in China

Industrial system modernization is an important part of achieving high-quality development, an internal requirement for promoting the process of Chinese modernization. Based on the data of 30 provinces in China from 2011 to 2022, the spatial-temporal characteristics of industrial system modernization level (ISML) as well as the complexity and stability of its spatial correlation network and influencing factors are revealed through the fixed base difference entropy weight method, gravity model, and social network analysis. The results show that: (1) In China, ISML in the whole country as well as various provinces has been increasing year by year, and there are obvious differences of inter-provincial ISML. (2) The spatial correlation effect of ISML overcame geographical proximity constraint, forming a relatively stable, complex, and multicenter spatial correlation network that radiates across the country. Moreover, the stronger the network connection, the higher the corresponding ISML. And the connectivity strength and density of the network displayed in different regions, as well as the connectivity number and strength that can be formed in different provinces, are all related to ISML. (3) The influence of geographical proximity on the formation for spatial correlation network of ISML is not significant; the impact and significance of carbon emission efficiency difference on that have gradually decreased; and the impact of technological innovation difference has the significant positive impact on that. Our results offer important insights for comprehensively building a modernized industrial system and promoting national modernization construction.