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The Impact of Highway Construction on the Profits of Agricultural Enterprises: Evidence From China

Author

Listed:
  • Weisong Cheng
  • Jingrun Shao
  • Liu Cui
  • Wenhao Song

Abstract

This study employs a quasi‐natural experiment using 7 years (2010–2016) of enterprise tax data from China, leveraging staggered highway openings at the county level to construct a difference‐in‐differences (DID) model. The findings reveal that highway access significantly enhances the profitability of agricultural enterprises. Robustness tests confirm these results. Heterogeneity analysis reveals that highway access has a greater impact on firms producing perishable agricultural products (e.g., vegetables, fruits, livestock, and aquaculture) and those located farther from major markets. Mechanism analysis suggests that highway access enhances agricultural enterprise profitability by improving transportation efficiency, expanding market reach, and lowering operational costs. Further analysis reveals that highway access positively influences firm productivity. These findings offer valuable insights for policymakers seeking to enhance sustainable agricultural development globally.

Suggested Citation

  • Weisong Cheng & Jingrun Shao & Liu Cui & Wenhao Song, 2025. "The Impact of Highway Construction on the Profits of Agricultural Enterprises: Evidence From China," Agricultural Economics, International Association of Agricultural Economists, vol. 56(6), pages 856-873, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:agecon:v:56:y:2025:i:6:p:856-873
    DOI: 10.1111/agec.70037
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Grant Mulenga & Erastus Misheng’u Mwanaumo, 2026. "Necessary but not Sufficient: Rural Road Rehabilitation, Agricultural Productivity and Climate Risk in Zambia’s Breadbasket Districts," International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation, International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation (IJRSI), vol. 13(2), pages 275-292, February.
    2. Yixuan Wang, 2026. "Evaluating the impact of road infrastructure on urban expansion in China," The Annals of Regional Science, Springer;Western Regional Science Association, vol. 75(1), pages 1-26, March.

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