Abstract

This study examines the evolutionary trajectory of financial leasing research in China from 1981 to 2022 through bibliometric analysis of 2,559 academic papers. Using CiteSpace visualization and quantitative methods, we identify three distinct developmental phases: initial exploration (1981-1998), rapid expansion (1999-2007), and adjustment optimization (2008-present). The analysis reveals a research paradigm that has evolved from conceptual introduction and theoretical exploration to encompassing broader interdisciplinary perspectives including legal, taxation, accounting, and regulatory dimensions. Despite substantial growth in publication volume, challenges persist including limited institutional collaboration, regional imbalances in research distribution, and a gap between theoretical development and practical application. The findings suggest that while China’s financial leasing research has achieved significant quantitative progress, there remains substantial room for theoretical innovation and practical integration to support the industry’s continued development.

Keywords:Financial leasing; Bibliometric analysis; Research evolution; China