Exploring cooperative and competitive relations in a Chinese intercity innovation network

While the relevance of intercity networks for innovation has long been highlighted in the literature, how such interactions may constitute both competition and cooperation between cities is less researched. This paper compares potential intercity competitive and cooperative relations in co-patent activities between Chinese cities. The results point to different patterns of competition and cooperation, especially regarding differentiated relevance of city size, political hierarchies and (geographical) distance. Specifically, cities may be likely to have competitive relations with others at same administrative levels and with similar sizes. Distance decay is evident in potential intercity cooperation but not in competitive relations. This research not only compares competitive and cooperative intercity relations in innovation activities but also highlights policy implications. • Examine potential competitive and cooperative relations in an intercity innovation network. • Identify the relevance of city size, political hierarchy, and distance. • Reveal different hierarchical patterns in competitive and cooperative relations.