The Impact of the Digital Economy on New Energy Vehicle Export Trade: Evidence from China

The digital economy era has witnessed the widespread application of 5G, big data, and artificial intelligence across industries. This trend has promoted the deep integration of digitalization and traditional sectors, thereby injecting new momentum into industrial development. n this context, this paper utilizes panel data from 29 Chinese provinces covering the period from 2017 to 2023. The conclusions are as follows: (1) Digital economy development significantly promotes new energy vehicle exports. (2) Digital economy indirectly facilitates exports by advancing technological innovation and financial services. (3) The digital economy exerts a notably stronger influence on new energy vehicle exports in eastern China compared to other regions. Based on these findings, the paper proposes 4 key policy recommendations: intelligent digital marketing, technological innovation, expanded openness, and government support, aiming to promote the sustainable development of China’s new energy vehicle export trade. This paper provides theoretical support for the sustainability of Chinese enterprises' competitiveness in the international market. It also offers practical guidance for policymakers and industry stakeholders.