The analysis of publishing integration policies helps identify the limitations of the current policy system and clarify the directions for policy optimization. This research examines102 publishing integration policies issued between 2014 and 2024. It establishes a three-dimensional analytical framework of “Policy subject—Integration pathway—Policy instrument” to quantitatively analyze the publishing integration policy system. Social network analysis and the core-periphery model evaluatepolicy subjects collaboration, identifying core and peripheral policy subjects. Content analysis was used to code and classify policy content, thereby revealing key characteristics of publishing integration policies regarding integration pathway selection and policy instrument utilization. The findings indicate that: first, policy subjects collaboration remains insufficient. Core subjects, particularly the National Press and Publication Administration, demonstrate suboptimal performance, necessitating substantial improvement in the collaborative engagement scope and depth. Second, integration pathway selection exhibits bias, with a reliance on project integration and technology integration, while underutilizing institutional integration and talent integration. The value of publishing data as a key production factor urgently needs to be unlocked. Third, policy instruments display structural imbalance, characterized by supply-side dominance, environmental-side supplementation, and demand-side complementation, with significant disparities within each category of instruments. To address these deficiencies, this research proposes several optimization strategies: firstly, enhance multi-subject synergy and improve the cooperation network of subjects. Establish a “one-core, multi-stakeholder” core policy subjects group led by the Central Publicity Department (Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee). Develop a hierarchical policy subjects collaboration network where “high-level subjects steer direction, core subjects coordinate implementation, and peripheral subjects provide resource support.” Secondly, identify the shortcomings of subdivided pathways and diversify integration pathway options. This research highlights specific shortcomings in pathways related to institutional mechanisms, technology systems, organizational structures, achievement exchange, and enterprise talent cultivation, suggesting targeted interventions. Regarding the value of publishing data factors, the pathway of “data resourceization—data assetization—data capitalization” should be followed, and the value of publishing data should be unlocked through collaboration between management departments and publishing enterprises. Finally, balance the structure of policy instruments and optimize the subcategory instrument utilization. Supply-side policy instruments should enhance platform construction and capital investment. Environmental-side policy instruments should refine conceptual frameworks and objectives, while improving the operability of policies. Measures, such as upgrading legislation, innovating fiscal and financial support models, and consistently providing tax incentives, must be implemented. Demand-side policy instruments should focus on market shaping and international exchanges. Supply-side reforms are used as a means to enhance content quality and services, while encouraging publishing enterprises to expand physical exports and copyright licensing through international cooperation and overseas investment. This research establishes theoretical foundations and practical pathways for improving the publishing integration policy system and promoting comprehensive publishing industry integration.