Abstract
This paper provides a comprehensive review of the deep integration and recent advances in economic geography and global value chain (GVC) research, aiming to construct a theoretical framework for understanding the dynamic spatial evolution of global production. It first traces the development from production networks to GVC theory, emphasizing key economic geography concepts such as “geographical embeddedness,” “governance patterns,” and “industrial upgrading,” and revealing the mechanisms underlying uneven value capture and spatial differentiation. The paper then analyzes new industrial spatial characteristics under the triple impacts of globalization backlash, digital transformation, and geopolitical conflicts, including the agglomeration of advanced functions driven by the digital economy, the role of tacit knowledge flows in shaping innovation clusters, and the generation of regional economic resilience. A critical assessment of traditional governance modes, such as modular and relational governance, highlights the central role of lead firm power structures in shaping global spatial inequalities and value distribution, while also projecting the profound influence of the “dual-carbon” strategy within the green transition on value chain governance logic. Finally, focusing on cutting-edge topics including digital platform algorithm governance, fragmentation, and re-territorialization of global production systems, the paper identifies gaps in current research concerning cross-scale dynamic analysis, operationalization of new governance models, and responses to non-traditional risks. It calls for constructing an integrated framework that combines geographical space, technological change, and governance dynamics to support emerging economies in restructuring participation in global value chains and achieving sustainable and inclusive development.
