The book provides a systematic review of research results on regional economic competitiveness, and constructs an evaluation index system based on nine key aspects: the development of a micro-economy; industrial development; enterprise strength; the sciences; education; innovation; environment governance and protection; financial development; and the degree of opening to the outside world. The book subsequently provides policy suggestions on how to enhance the economic and social development of the West of China based on a comprehensive evaluation and analysis. In addition to comparing the recent social development of the provinces in the West, the book also calls upon the central government to play the leading role, encourage mass participation and promote the opening up of the West of China.

Autorentext
Huiqin Yao is the General Director of the Research Center of Economic Development in Western China, Northwest University, China.  She is also a Professor, PhD supervisor and Standing Director of the National Seminar on Capital. She received her bachelor's degree in Political and Economic Sciences from Northwest University, China, where she would later complete her PhD in Economic Studies (2001).  She has published over ten papers and articles in Management World, Economic Reviews and other respected journals. 
Zhangyong Xu holds a PhD in Economic Studies. He is a Professor and PhD supervisor at the School of Economics and Management, Northwest University, China, where he also serves as Deputy Director of the Research Center of Economic Development in Western China.

Inhalt
Chapter I Report on 10 year's Economic Development in the West of China: 1999-2008.- Chapter II Comprehensive Competitiveness of Provincial economy in the West of China and Analysis Report.- Chapter III Evaluation and Analysis Report on Economic Growth in the West of China.- Chapter IV Evaluation on and Analytical Report on Social Development in the West of China.