Research on the Hollowing-out Characterization in the Evolution of Chinese Cities: A Multidimensional Comparative Analysis Based on Guangzhou and Langfang

Qi Liu

doi:10.71222/rjb60025

Authors

Qi Liu Basis International School Guangzhou, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.71222/rjb60025

Keywords:

Urbanization, Guangzhou, Langfang, Functional Hollowing Out, Population Dynamics, Industrial Resilience, Urban Governance, Growth-oriented Cities

Abstract

The aim of this study is to explore the evolutionary difference of cities at different levels in the process of China's urbanization, with a focus on the comparison of Guangzhou, a representative "growth-oriented city," and Langfang, which is confronted with the risk of "functional hollowing out." Through the analysis of population dynamics, economic structure, industrial layout, innovation capacity, and public service levels from 2021 to 2024, it was found that Guangzhou, relying on its strong industrial resilience and agglomeration capacity, has established a virtuous cycle of population inflow, improvement of industrial efficiency, and enhancement of public service levels. However, while Langfang enjoyed the crowding-out effect of Beijing, it now encounters the dual risks of permanent resident outflow and low-end industrial lock-in, driven by the strong suction force of core cities. The study also improved the formation mechanism of urban hollowing out, offering suggestions on the governance of small and medium-sized cities to avoid functional hollowing out.

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