Analysis of the Spatio-Temporal Differences and Structural Evolution of Xizang’s County Economy

Abstract

County’s level economic disparities remain as a key policy issue for sustainable and healthy regional development, particularly for their spatiotemporal dynamics. This research adopted Geographic Information Systems software and spatial econometric analysis methods to analyze the temporal and spatial disparities, spatial structures, and dynamic evolution processes of the Xizang Autonomous Region’s county-level economy. With the application of the coefficient of variation and spatial autocorrelation methods, the research identified a significant trend of narrowing economic differences among the 74 counties. The study also observes a growing spatial autocorrelation, pointing towards a more clustered economic growth pattern, particularly influenced by the Lhasa economic circle’s expanding regional radiation capacity. The findings underscore the importance of strategic development planning, including the integrated development of Lhasa and Shannan. This study contributes to the literature on regional economic development and offers insights for policy formulation aimed at sustainable and equitable growth in Xizang, which could also benefit future development of counties in developing countries with comparable economic environments.