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Participation in cross-border e-commerce platforms and export product quality: Causal effects and interaction mechanisms

Author

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  • Li, Moruomi
  • Liu, Yixin
  • Pei, Yucong
  • He, Haiyang

Abstract

With the restructuring of global value chains and the rapid growth of digital trade, cross-border e-commerce platforms are becoming a key driver of quality upgrades for exporting firms, particularly in emerging markets. This paper investigates the causal effect of participation in cross-border e-commerce platforms on export quality, and explores the underlying mechanisms. Using data from Chinese A-share listed non-financial firms linked with customs trade records, we develop a firm-level indicator of platform participation (CBEP) and empirically assess its impact on product quality. The results indicate a significant positive effect of CBEP on export quality, robust across various specifications. Mechanism analysis suggests that this effect may operate through three potential channels: enhanced product-market competitiveness, reduced supply-demand divergence, and increased knowledge diversification. Further, heterogeneity analysis shows that the quality improvement is more pronounced among firms with lower internationalization. This study contributes to the literature on export quality determinants by highlighting the role of digital platforms in quality upgrading, offering empirical evidence and policy implications for leveraging e-commerce platforms to enhance export quality.

Suggested Citation

  • Li, Moruomi & Liu, Yixin & Pei, Yucong & He, Haiyang, 2026. "Participation in cross-border e-commerce platforms and export product quality: Causal effects and interaction mechanisms," Economic Analysis and Policy, Elsevier, vol. 92(C), pages 34-50.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ecanpo:v:92:y:2026:i:c:p:34-50
    DOI: 10.1016/j.eap.2026.05.020
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