Creating knowledge‐based innovation in China : The strategic implications of triple helix model

Purpose – This research paper attempts to address the strategic challenges of developing knowledge‐based innovation (KBI) in China through the analysis of the triple helix (TH) innovation networks between university, government and industry in China. In so doing, the TH model is adopted as an analytical framework to investigate the format and operations of knowledge networks within university, government and industry during the economic transitions in China. Design/methodology/approach – The paper incorporates field observation, interviews with senior government officials, desk research on various government policy document as well as critical review of the existing literature related to KBI and the TH model in order to build up the strategic overview of the current state of KBI in China. Findings – Based on the critical literature review and interviews, it is identified that the formation and operation of knowledge production system in China on the one hand reflects the three dimensions within TH model: normative control (government), wealth generation (industry) and novelty production (university and public research institutions), on the other hand highlights dynamic institutional interactions and transformational processes in creating the knowledge economy. The key factors that have an effect on the inter‐institutional relations and evolutions of different knowledge functions within the TH innovation networks, have also been identified and manifested in the proposed theoretical framework of the knowledge production system in China. Originality/value – The originality of the paper rests in addressing the strategic implications of TH innovation model for developing KBI in China, and highlighting the challenges facing both policy makers and innovation managers in terms of managing the organizational and institutional changes during the process of knowledge creation.