Research on the Influencing Factors and Efficiency of Digital Trade: Evidence from the Macro Level

Digital trade has become a crucial component of the digital economy and a significant area of focus in the field of commerce. However, there is still a need to investigate the factors and mechanisms that impact digital trade as well as evaluating its efficiency. Using national panel data, this paper employs various empirical research methods such as Difference in Differences (DID) and Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA), utilizes the United Nations Commodity Trade Statistics Database (UN Comtrade), and references international organizations’ broad definition of digital trade including the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), World Trade Organization (WTO), and International Monetary Fund (IMF). The study measures the degree of digital trade while examining its factors and efficiency. Results indicate that China’s digital trade efficiency ranks highly among major countries, with regional trade agreement significantly promoting its development. This study provides theoretical support and guidance for enhancing governance systems surrounding digital trade while clarifying its developmental positioning.