The shift from resource utilization to optimal allocation of resources, capital, and labor: Analyzing China’s coastal fisheries economies

Abstract

Exploring the impact of fishery resources on the fishery economy in China’s coastal areas through the “drag effect” of fishery resources is essential for promoting sustainable utilization, improving fishery quality, and addressing regional disparities in fishery development. Using panel data from 11 coastal provinces from 2007 to 2022, this study employs the time-varying CRITIC-entropy method to measure the fishery resource utilization index, empirically investigates the “drag effect” of fishery resources, and analyzes spatial effects using a spatial econometric model. The findings reveal that fishery resource input (R) significantly promotes the fishery economy and injects impetus for the sustained growth of the fishery economy; labor input (L) significantly constrains the fishery economy, probably due to excess inputs, which in turn constrains the production efficiency; and capital input (K) does not significantly affect the fishery economy, so it is necessary to focus on the balanced inputs of each factor. The “drag effect” of fishery resources varies significantly among provinces, categorized into low-promoting provinces (Zhejiang, Shanghai, Jiangsu, Tianjin, Guangdong), low-constraining provinces (Liaoning, Fujian, Hainan, Hebei, Guangxi), and high-constraining provinces (Shandong). Spatially, the “drag effect” is classified into three patterns: Low-Low (Shanghai), High-Low (Fujian), and no significant spatial effects. The “drag effect” of fishery resources in most provinces does not show significant spatial spillover effects. To ensure the sustainable and healthy development of the fishery economy, it is imperative to balance the input of fishery resources, capital, and labor, implement region-specific fishery development strategies, and strengthen cooperation among coastal regions to enhance resource utilization and reduce regional disparities.