Cross-Strait sci-tech collaborative innovation empowering new quality productive forces: from a knowledge management perspective

Purpose Using the Cross-Strait Sci-Tech Innovation Center (CSIC) in China as a model case, this study aims to analyze challenges in Cross-Strait sci-tech collaborative innovation from a knowledge management (KM) perspective. It identifies critical bottlenecks in knowledge flows across the four dimensions of socialization, externalization, combination and internalization (SECI) and explores corresponding optimization pathways. In doing so, it provides theoretical insights and practical guidance for empowering new quality productive forces (NQPFs). The study further develops a cross-institutional SECI adaptation framework and examines its applicability in contexts characterized by institutional plurality. Design/methodology/approach This study adopts a case-based approach, using the CSIC as the unit of analysis, while reframing the inquiry as a conceptual policy-oriented perspective supported by contextual illustrations. Data were collected through systematic archival analysis, field discussions and semistructured interviews. Interview recordings were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic analysis following a six-phase coding protocol. All data extracts were systematically mapped onto the four SECI dimensions to ensure analytical transparency. Findings Analysis across the four KM dimensions reveals several key challenges. At the socialization level, information silos and trust deficits hinder tacit knowledge sharing. At the externalization level, institutional differences in technical standards and intellectual property regimes impede knowledge explication. At the combination level, restrictions on cross-border data flows obstruct knowledge integration. At the internalization level, limited mutual recognition of professional qualifications hinders the effective application of tacit knowledge. Research limitations/implications This study is limited by its positioning as a conceptual policy-oriented analysis rather than a fully empirical case study. Nevertheless, it offers important contributions. Theoretically, it constructs a cross-institutional SECI adaptation framework for understanding knowledge creation under conditions of institutional divergence. Practically, it provides actionable policy recommendations, including the establishment of Cross-Strait integrated development demonstration zones. Originality/value To the best of the authors knowledge, this study is the first to systematically apply KM to the context of Cross-Strait sci-tech collaborative innovation, highlighting the role of knowledge dynamics in advancing NQPFs. It deepens understanding of the SECI model’s operation across institutional boundaries and offers a novel KM perspective on pathways for Cross-Strait integration. Furthermore, it proposes a cross-institutional SECI adaptation model that explains how institutional discontinuities reshape the knowledge creation spiral.