Economic Geography is a specialized branch of human geography dedicated to studying the spatial dimensions of economic activities. This field examines how economic processes, such as production, trade, and consumption, are distributed across various locations on Earth. It explores the interplay between geographic factors and economic activities, focusing on how spatial distributions impact and are influenced by geographical conditions.

Several definitions from notable scholars provide a comprehensive understanding of Economic Geography:

1. Dudley Stamp describes Economic Geography as considering the geographical and other factors affecting human productivity, with a focus limited to aspects related to production and trade. This definition underscores the field’s interest in how geography influences economic outputs and exchanges.
2. Professor E.W. Zimmermann defines Economic Geography as the study of economic life in relation to the environment. This perspective emphasizes the relationship between human economic activities and environmental contexts.
3. Mac Farlane views Economic Geography as analyzing the influence exerted on economic activities by the physical environment. This includes factors like landform, climate, and spatial relations between different regions, highlighting how these elements shape economic practices.
4. Hartshorn and Alexander define the field as studying the spatial variations of activities related to the production, exchange, and consumption of goods and services. Their approach aims to develop theories that explain these spatial differences.
5. Chisholm takes a forward-looking view, suggesting that Economic Geography attempts to predict future commercial development based on geographical factors.

Further definitions from contemporary scholars include:

• Paul Krugman and Anthony Venables describe Economic Geography as focusing on the location, distribution, and spatial organization of economic activities across the Earth.
• Richard Peet emphasizes the examination of spatial distributions of economic activities and the factors influencing these patterns, such as resources, transportation, and market access.
• Trevor J. Barnes highlights the field’s concern with why economic activities are situated where they are and how these locations impact global economies.
• William D. Pattison notes that Economic Geography explores the relationship between people and their economic activities in terms of space and place, focusing on resource distribution, industries, and trade.
• Neil M. Coe and Philip F. Kelly describe it as studying the geographic distribution of economic activities, their patterns, impacts, and the role of geography in shaping economies.

Economic Geography investigates several key areas:

1. Spatial Distribution of Resources: This involves studying the location of natural resources such as minerals, forests, and water bodies, and how their availability influences the development of industries and economic regions. The distribution of resources affects where industries are located and how they develop, impacting regional economic growth.
2. Economic Activities and Locations: The field analyzes why certain economic activities, like agriculture, manufacturing, services, and trade, are concentrated in specific areas. It considers factors such as climate, topography, and accessibility to understand why industries cluster in particular regions.
3. Regional Development: Economic Geography examines why economic development varies across different regions. Factors like infrastructure, government policies, and regional planning play crucial roles in either promoting growth or contributing to economic decline in various areas.
4. Global Trade and Connectivity: The discipline explores global trade patterns and the effects of globalization. It assesses how interconnected regions influence economic activities, including trade flows, investment patterns, and economic integration, showing how local economies are linked to global markets.

Economic Inequality: Economic Geography investigates spatial inequalities in economic development, seeking to understand why some regions thrive while others lag behind. This involves analyzing historical, political, and economic factors that contribute to these disparities.