SME–Platform System Development in China–ASEAN E-Commerce: A Synergetic Evolution Perspective

This paper examines the synergetic development between small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and platforms in China–ASEAN cross-border e-commerce, representing a dynamic system of interrelated market entities. By integrating synergy theory with evolutionary principles, this study develops an evolutionary game model to reflect collaborative development strategies and their evolutionary trajectories. The model reveals nine distinct equilibrium states, with particular attention to a bifurcation scenario demonstrating two stable configurations: mutual collaboration and mutual non-collaboration. Model validation is conducted through numerical simulations with parameters referenced from the DHgate platform case and relevant government policy documents. The findings illuminate key parameters that influence evolutionary trajectories, including initial conditions, regulatory interventions, and resource distribution mechanisms. Specifically, strong initial collaboration propensity, balanced governmental facilitation, and equitable benefit–cost sharing mechanisms are identified as critical factors promoting synergetic development. This research enriches cross-border e-commerce studies by pioneering the integration of synergy theory and the evolutionary game model, offering novel insights into the bilateral dynamics of SME–platform system development.