Access to knowledge and knowledge production: the case of China

ABSTRACT This paper estimates knowledge production functions for the Chinese economy using provincial-level data over the years 2008 through 2016. First, the number of R&D personnel, funding, and the accessibility to global knowledge stock all have positive and significant effects on both general patent application, and invention patent application. Second, the knowledge accumulation effect on knowledge production efficiency is substantial. Third, the state-owned sector has an important role in fundamental innovation. Most importantly, accessibility to knowledge is important in realizing the benefit of the non-rivalry of knowledge. Hence, it is pivotal that the Chinese government adopt an open innovation approach and keep moving along its plan of reform and opening up [All sources are published on-line except for NSO, which is available upon request].