Digital Product Imports and Green Transformation of Enterprises: Evidence from China

In the context of the digital economy, the import of digital products has become a critical factor driving enterprises toward green transformation. This study empirically investigates how importing digital products affects the green transformation of enterprises, drawing on data from Chinese A-share listed companies between 2000 and 2016, and analyzes the underlying mechanisms of this relationship. The findings demonstrate that importing digital products significantly promotes green transformation among enterprises, a conclusion supported by various robustness tests. The primary mechanisms identified include fostering technological progress, enhancing market competition, and easing financing constraints faced by businesses. Further analysis highlights differences across firms, revealing that state-owned enterprises, high-tech firms, and larger corporations benefit more distinctly from digital product imports. This research provides both theoretical and empirical insights into how digital product imports can accelerate green transformation, ultimately supporting enterprises in achieving high-quality, sustainable development.