THE FORMATION OF TECH CLUSTERS IN EMERGING COUNTRIES: ANALYSIS OF THE SHENZHEN SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONE (1980-2025)

Abstract

This article analyzes the case of the Shenzhen Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in China between 1980 and 2025, with the aim of understanding the institutional, economic and technological factors that enabled the city to become one of the world's leading technology clusters. Using the case study method, combined with a literature review and historical analysis, the article investigates the impacts of the reform and opening-up policies initiated by Deng Xiaoping, especially the creation of SEZs, on fostering innovation. The central hypothesis considers that Shenzhen's success results from the combination of economic liberalization, investment in human capital and stimulation of the production and dissemination of knowledge, as advocated by the endogenous growth theory. The research concludes that the favorable institutional environment, the role of the State as a facilitator and the strengthening of local technological capabilities were decisive for the consolidation of the city's technology cluster.