Unveiling the Spatial Coupling Dynamics and Coordination Mechanisms Between Digital Inclusive Finance and Rural Industrial Integration Development

This study examines the coupling coordination between digital inclusive finance (DIF) and rural industrial integration development (RIID) in China from 2011 to 2021, using panel data from 282 prefecture-level cities. By employing the coupling coordination model and entropy method, the research analyzes the spatiotemporal evolution and regional disparities of DIF and RIID. Key findings include the following: (1) The coupling coordination degree between DIF and RIID shows a consistent upward trend, transitioning from mild imbalance to primary coordination, though RIID lags behind DIF. (2) Significant regional disparities exist, with an “N-shaped” spatial distribution pattern from south to north, where eastern and northeastern regions exhibit higher coordination levels compared to central and western regions. (3) Regional differences are narrowing, driven primarily by inter-regional disparities, with strong spatial spillover effects observed in “high–high” and “low–low” agglomerations. (4) The overall spatial network tightness and stability have improved, with eastern regions playing a central role in the network, while northeastern and western regions remain relatively marginal. Policy recommendations include expanding DIF applications in rural industries, reducing regional disparities through resource allocation, promoting rural industrial integration in underdeveloped areas, and strengthening regional coordination to facilitate resource flow.