A Catalyst for China’s High-Tech Export Competitiveness: Perspective of Technological Innovation

This study investigates the pivotal role of technological innovation in enhancing the export competitiveness of high-tech products in China, analyzing its interplay with industrial upgrading. Theoretically, it contributes to the understanding of how technological innovation affects high-tech product markets, offering a novel product-centric perspective distinct from traditional industry-focused views. Set against China’s shift toward a dual circulation development paradigm, the research utilizes a panel regression model to analyze data from 30 Chinese provinces, cities, and autonomous regions from 2011 to 2021. The findings underscore the significant positive impact of technological innovation on export competitiveness, with variances noted across Eastern, Central, and Western regions. The study reveals that technological innovation primarily influences the global competitiveness of high-tech products through industrial upgrading. Policy recommendations emphasize strengthening technological innovation, enhancing education and government support, leveraging regional strengths, and achieving a balance between internal innovation capabilities and market openness. The findings suggest these strategies are crucial for enhancing export performance in the global market for high-tech products.