Institutional Adaptability in China: Local Developmental Models Under Changing Economic Conditions

摘要: Summary Distinct patterns of regional development have emerged in China’s political economy since the initiation economic reforms late 1970s. In particular, localities Suzhou, Wenzhou, and Dongguan each achieved dramatic growth during first three decades reform, earning them national reputations as developmental “models” for other cities China to recognize emulate. However, local states responded differentially changing conditions broader domestic global economy; financial crisis at end 2000s affected with varying levels severity. This article thus seeks explain why previously well-performing models diverged their performance capacity recover from a major shock. Drawing on census data, in-depth field interviews, relevant secondary literature, we argue that variation institutional adaptability throughout course experiences had defining effect how these fared crisis. The process-tracing case studies reveal locality’s ability adjust market may be conditioned by structural endowments, but ultimately hinges agent-centric factors, including motivated capable leadership , openness new policy ideas state implementation . Ultimately, our analysis makes observation dynamic environment, factors promote success one point can become barriers later on. Hence, exploring region’s identifying facilitate or impede such governance provides more nuanced means understanding evolving performance—during normal times, well challenging periods.