Spatial Correlation Analysis of China's Provincial New Quality Productive Forces Development Level Based on Social Network Analysis

Abstract New quality productive forces represent a paradigmatic shift in China's economic development trajectory. This study examines the spatiotemporal evolution of new quality productive forces across Chinese provinces to elucidate regional disparities and development patterns. We employed a three-stage analytical framework: (1) BP neural networks to evaluate provincial development levels (2013–2022); (2) modified gravity models to quantify spatial correlations; and (3) social network analysis to map inter-provincial relationships, with provinces as nodes and spatial correlations as edges. Cohesive subgroup analysis and independent cascade models examined agglomeration and spillover effects. Our findings reveal: (1) New quality productive forces demonstrate steady growth with pronounced east-west disparities—eastern coastal regions significantly outperform central and western areas; (2) The inter-provincial correlation network exhibits increasing density, balance, and efficiency; (3) Leading eastern provinces (Beijing, Shanghai, Jiangsu) serve as network hubs, generating substantial spillover effects.Regional development strategies should be differentiated: southeastern coastal and Yangtze River Delta regions should prioritize high-tech industries and regional integration; northern and northwestern regions should leverage resource endowments; southwestern areas should develop specialized agriculture and tourism while strengthening infrastructure; northeastern regions require innovation-driven industrial restructuring. Cross-regional collaboration in high-tech sectors should be promoted, with targeted policy support to reduce development imbalances and enhance central and western regions' capabilities.This research provides empirical evidence for spatially differentiated policies promoting balanced development of new quality productive forces across China's provinces.