Comparative Analysis of Technological Innovation in Chinese Cities: Pre and Post-Government Green Performance Assessment

Abstract

To better promote the transformation of the economic development mode and improve technological innovation, the Chinese central government adjusted the performance assessment criteria for local officials. This study explores whether the government green performance assessment can serve to promote technological innovation. Data from 288 Chinese cities from between 2009 and 2018 is taken as the sample and the fixed effects model is utilized as the methodology. The findings show that the government green performance assessment has significant direct and long-term effects on technological innovation. The promotion of technological innovation is more evident in industry-oriented, low-pollution, and center groups, in addition to among veteran, high-education, and senior groups. Proposed policy recommendations include establishing a performance system that emphasizes short and long-term effects, and developing performance standards that are tailored to local conditions.