The Isomorphism of Local Development Policy: A Case Study of the Formation and Transformation of National Development Zones in Post-Mao Jiangsu, China

Abstract

It is often the case, although it has not been well-documented, that local governments aiming for economic growth tend to formulate and implement very similar, or even identical, policies. This phenomenon is referred to as the `isomorphism of local development policy', or `local policy isomorphism'. Five mechanisms are theoretically elaborated in order to explain the phenomenon of local policy isomorphism. The different regions formulate similar development strategies for the following reasons: they face similar pressure from the central government (or international organisations); they are competing for investments that are highly mobile; they engage in mimetic learning attributable to the uncertainties of development; experienced personnel move from advanced regions to underdeveloped areas; and, professional organisations are involved on a consultancy basis. The case of the formation and transformation of national development zones in the Jiangsu province in post-Mao China is used to illustrate the empirical applications of these five mechanisms.