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The impact of intercity multi-transportation networks on enterprises' total factor productivity

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  • Liu, Le
  • Jia, Shanming
  • Liu, Pengzhen

Abstract

The intercity multi-transportation networks (MTN), facilitated by aviation and high-speed rail, transcends distance constraints on factor flows, significantly enhancing enterprises' total factor productivity (TFP). This study empirically examines the impact of MTN centrality on enterprises' TFP using a panel dataset (“city-firm”) of Chinese A-share listed enterprises from 2010 to 2020. This study reveals several key findings: Firstly, increased MTN centrality markedly boosts enterprises' TFP levels. Secondly, these networks enhance enterprises' TFP by strengthening knowledge spillovers, adjusting industrial structures and achieving economies of scale through intercity connections via aviation and high-speed rail. However, knowledge spillover enhancement and industrial structure adjustment play a more prominent role in advancing the technological progress of enterprises, while economies of scale primarily contribute to improving technological efficiency. Thirdly, the impact of MTN centrality on enterprises' TFP varies across space and time. Core cities experience more pronounced improvements compared to peripheral cities. Overall, the study underscores the positive impact of intercity MTN, supported by infrastructure like high-speed rail and aviation, on micro-enterprises and their internal mechanisms.

Suggested Citation

  • Liu, Le & Jia, Shanming & Liu, Pengzhen, 2025. "The impact of intercity multi-transportation networks on enterprises' total factor productivity," Transport Policy, Elsevier, vol. 162(C), pages 477-492.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:trapol:v:162:y:2025:i:c:p:477-492
    DOI: 10.1016/j.tranpol.2024.12.018
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