Journal of East China Normal University (Philosophy and Social Sciences) ›› 2022, Vol. 54 ›› Issue (3): 132-139.doi: 10.16382/j.cnki.1000-5579.2022.03.013

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The Formation Mechanism of the Social Space of Transnational Immigrants and Immigrant Governance: A Case Study of Foreign Immigrants in Yiwu, Zhejiang Province

Rui-jun WU, Xiao WU, Qi-xin XUE   

  • Accepted:2022-04-16 Online:2022-05-15 Published:2022-05-31

Abstract:

Based on empirical research, this paper explores the formation mechanism of Yiwu’s internationalized social space, comparing it with the black settlements in Guangzhou. It finds that in the context of globalization, Yiwu’s transnational immigrants maintain and develop transnational links through the trade chain on the one hand, and build their economic and social space in Yiwu on the other. The rapid urbanization has attracted lots of immigrants to gather in Yiwu. The economic ecosystem in which foreign populations live with local residents and national immigrants has spawned many international living spaces characterized by integration and mixed residence, forming a spatial distribution pattern of ethnic integration. Under the joint function of system, capital and “grassroots” forces, the “Yiwu Model” of transnational immigrant social space production has been formed.

Key words: Yiwu, transnational immigration, social space, immigrant governance