Spatial heterogeneity of the economic growth pattern and influencing factors in formerly destitute areas of China

Accelerating economic growth in formerly destitute areas and narrowing the economic gap with other regions are essential tasks for poverty alleviation in China after 2020. In this study, the spatio-temporal characteristics of economic growth in 14 formerly destitute areas of China were identified. Moreover, the spatial heterogeneity of various influencing factors was analyzed using a geographically weighted regression model. The results were as follows: (1) The economic level of the formerly destitute areas was low, but their economies grew rapidly after 2011, with annual per capita GDP growth of 10.54% until 2018, higher than the national average of 9.14%. Western and southern counties grew faster economically than central and northern counties. (2) The impact of various factors on the economic growth of counties exhibited clear spatial heterogeneity. The influences of secondary industry growth and level of financial development on economic growth were mainly positive, whereas the effects of initial economic level and market location were mainly negative. (3) Six economic growth driving modes were identified for the 14 contiguous destitute areas, among which the secondary industry-driven mode was the most common. The study can serve as a scientific reference for differentiating regional policies.