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Data factors and high-quality population development: A theoretical study incorporating data as a production factor

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  • Yang, Jun
  • Yang, Dingjian

Abstract

This study aims to unveil the impact of the data factors on population quality and the economy. We construct a semi-endogenous growth model that includes the production, research, and education sectors and distinguish between production and consumption data according to the data source. Simultaneously, we introduce two types of data as input factors for production and research, and portray the mechanisms through which the data factors promote the improvement of population quality and economic growth. Our conclusions are as follows. First, when the education level is sufficiently high, an improvement in population quality can compensate for the decrease in population quantity, achieve the accumulation of human capital, and promote economic growth. Second, both types of data have a facilitating effect on population quality and the economy; the facilitating effect of consumption data is more significant on the economy. Third, compared with the optimal allocation, the proportion of labour allocation and data sales in a decentralised economy is seriously distorted and can only yield inefficient population quality and economic growth rates. Relying on improved data utilisation efficiency can only partially alleviate this inefficiency, and policy intervention is essential for realising the optimal allocation. Finally, when the education level is low, the facilitating effect of data on the economy is suppressed, suggesting that the contribution of data is limited and population quality improvement is crucial for sustained economic growth.

Suggested Citation

  • Yang, Jun & Yang, Dingjian, 2025. "Data factors and high-quality population development: A theoretical study incorporating data as a production factor," Economic Analysis and Policy, Elsevier, vol. 88(C), pages 1185-1236.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ecanpo:v:88:y:2025:i:c:p:1185-1236
    DOI: 10.1016/j.eap.2025.10.026
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