Research on the Coupling Coordination Mechanism of Rural Revitalization and Digital Economy in Zhejiang Province

Abstract

The internet economy's explosive growth is a crucial factor in encouraging rural revitalization(RR). This paper analyses the relevant data of RR and digital economy(DE) in Zhejiang Province from 2012 to 2021, providing a basis for the completion of RR strategies, enhancing the state of rural areas today and encouraging the growth of the DE. Firstly, a thorough assessment system for DE and RR was built, and the degree of development of both was assessed using the entropy weight technique. Then, the coupling coordination degree(CCD) model and spatial autocorrelation model were used to explore the coupling relationship and spatiotemporal distribution characteristics of the two systems. Finally, the influencing factors were determined through a random panel Tobit regression. The study found that: (1) The development level of RR and DE in Zhejiang Province is constantly improving, and the development level of RR is higher than that of the DE. The gap between them is gradually narrowing during the development process. (2) The CCD of RR and DE has risen from the verge of imbalance to primary coupling coordination from 2012 to 2021, and the overall CCD shows a slow growth trend. (3) There is a positive spatial association observed in the CCD between the DE and rural rejuvenation. The Zhejiang Northeast region is mainly characterized by high-high aggregation, while the Zhejiang Southwest region is mainly characterized by low-low aggregation. (4) Government support, urbanization level, economic level, transportation level, and industrial structure have a promoting effect on the CCD of the two systems of RR and DE. Based on the above conclusions, relevant policy suggestions are proposed from multiple perspectives.