Regional patterns and drivers of green, digital and twin technological diversification in China

The twin transition promises a path to sustainability, but its regional dynamics in emerging economies are unclear. This study systematically analyses how Chinese regions diversify into green, digital and twin (green–digital) technologies. Using city-level patent data, we find that digital innovation surged since 2012, outpacing green technologies, and is highly concentrated in eastern hubs. Green innovation is more dispersed, while twin technologies remain limited and even more spatially unequal. Relatedness predicts entry across domains, but complexity poses barriers. These findings reveal the uneven geography of China’s twin transition, highlighting the need for tailored, place-based policy responses.