The impact of fast trains on tourism development in China: the role of local leaders

Abstract

Purpose High-speed railway (HSR) substantially affects tourism development, but this impact remains somewhat controversial. This study aims to explore the HSR–tourism nexus from the perspective of Chinese local governance. In the context of promotion tournament model in China, this study attempts to explain such controversy by including local leaders. Design/methodology/approach Based on a data set from 25 cities in China’s Yangtze River Delta region during 2005–2019, this study uses a panel data regression model to examine local leaders’ moderating role in the HSR–tourism nexus. Findings The tenure of local leaders has a significant moderating role in the impact of HSR implementation on tourism development. Furthermore, a shorter leaders’ tenure strengthens the boost to tourism development from HSR service. Originality/value This paper enriches theoretical framework of leaders’ tournament theory. In addition, this study provides a new perspective to understand the HSR–tourism nexus better. This study identifies the moderating role of local leaders in the HSR–tourism nexus and expands the mechanism research of HSR–tourism nexus, which helps to explain the controversy of the HSR–tourism nexus.