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The Formation of Production Networks: How Supply Chains Arise from Simple Learning with Minimal Information

Author

Listed:
  • Tuong Manh Vu
  • Ernesto Carrella
  • Robert Axtell
  • Omar A. Guerrero

Abstract

We develop a model where firms determine the price at which they sell their differentiable goods, the volume that they produce, and the inputs (types and amounts) that they purchase from other firms. A steady-state production network emerges endogenously without resorting to assumptions such as equilibrium or perfect knowledge about production technologies. Through a simple version of reinforcement learning, firms with heterogeneous technologies cope with uncertainty and maximize profits. Due to this learning process, firms can adapt to shocks such as demand shifts, suppliers/clients closure, productivity changes, and production technology modifications; effectively reshaping the production network. To demonstrate the potential of this model, we analyze the upstream and downstream impact of demand and productivity shocks.

Suggested Citation

  • Tuong Manh Vu & Ernesto Carrella & Robert Axtell & Omar A. Guerrero, 2025. "The Formation of Production Networks: How Supply Chains Arise from Simple Learning with Minimal Information," Papers 2504.16010, arXiv.org.
    • Handle: RePEc:arx:papers:2504.16010
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    References listed on IDEAS

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