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Cross-Border E-Commerce and Global Supply Chains: Evidence on Trade Costs, Exports, and Productivity

Author

Listed:
  • Qiuyan Peng
  • Nianhong Chen

Abstract

Global supply chains have faced increasing disruption due to trade protectionism, geopolitical tensions, and external shocks. These developments have highlighted the need for more flexible and resilient trade mechanisms. This study examines how cross-border e-commerce (CBEC) is associated with trade-cost frictions, export performance, and firm-level productivity among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Using a mixed-method approach, the quantitative analysis is based on firm-level survey data from 150 SMEs across multiple regions and is estimated using structural equation modelling, complemented by qualitative interview evidence. The results show that CBEC adoption is associated with lower trade-cost frictions and improved export performance. CBEC is also positively associated with productivity, with supply chain efficiency acting as a partial mediating mechanism. The findings suggest that CBEC functions not only as a market-access channel but also as an operational mechanism supporting supply chain efficiency. Policy implications highlight the importance of digital trade frameworks, infrastructure investment, and SME capability development.

Suggested Citation

  • Qiuyan Peng & Nianhong Chen, 2026. "Cross-Border E-Commerce and Global Supply Chains: Evidence on Trade Costs, Exports, and Productivity," Economic Studies journal, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences - Economic Research Institute, issue 7, pages 43-67.
    • Handle: RePEc:bas:econst:y:2026:i:7:p:43-67
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    File URL: http://archive.econ-studies.iki.bas.bg/2026/2026_07/2026_07_03.pdf
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • F14 - International Economics - - Trade - - - Empirical Studies of Trade
    • L81 - Industrial Organization - - Industry Studies: Services - - - Retail and Wholesale Trade; e-Commerce
    • O33 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Technological Change: Choices and Consequences; Diffusion Processes

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