The Impact of Digital Infrastructure Spatial Association Networks on the Spatial Convergence of Agricultural Carbon Productivity

Utilizing panel data from 31 Chinese provinces spanning 2011 to 2023, this study systematically examines the impact of digital infrastructure (DI) development on agricultural carbon productivity (ACP). By employing a modified gravity model (MGM) and social network analysis (SNA), we characterize the structural evolution of the Digital Infrastructure Spatial Association Network (DISAN) and evaluate its influence on the spatial convergence of ACP. The findings reveal that: (1) While China’s ACP improved steadily during the sample period, significant regional disparities persist. The Northeast maintains a leading position, while the Southeast coast exhibits a rapid catch-up trend; notably, the central and western regions demonstrate “late-mover advantages”, with several western provinces excelling through clean energy integration. Simultaneously, DI development follows a polarized “east-high, west-low” distribution. (2) The inter-provincial DISAN is becoming increasingly cohesive, characterized by rising network density, clustering coefficients, and “small-world” effects. This network structure has significantly accelerated the cross-regional diffusion of low-carbon technologies, the exchange of green management expertise, and the mobility of digital factors, thereby enhancing regional synergy. (3) A significant convergence trend exists in China’s ACP, with the convergence rate under DISAN notably surpassing that under traditional geographical proximity. DI effectively mitigates geographical constraints and amplifies spatial spillover effects, fostering the coordinated growth of regional ACP. This study provides empirical evidence of the spatial nexus between digital integration and agricultural decarbonization, offering strategic insights for regional coordinated development and carbon reduction policies.