The impact of digital transformation on the financial performance of logistics enterprises

Purpose The study examines the impact of digital transformation (DT) on the financial performance (FP) of logistics enterprises and explores how government support reinforces this relationship amid Vietnam's digital economic transition. Design/methodology/approach Data were collected from 78 logistics enterprises through the General Statistics Office of Vietnam and a survey of enterprise leaders in Can Tho (2021–2023). The feasible generalised least squares method was applied to test the research model. Findings DT is positively associated with improved FP among logistics firms, reflected in higher profitability (ROA) and greater cost efficiency (lower cost-to-revenue ratios). Government support appears to help firms overcome investment barriers, with supported firms exhibiting stronger DT implementation and improved cost efficiency, with potential implications for logistics system development and supply chain resilience. Research limitations/implications Further longitudinal studies are recommended to capture the long-term effects of DT policies and their contribution to national resilience. Originality/value By integrating transaction cost economics and the resource-based view (RBV), this study provides a comprehensive framework to explain DT's effectiveness in both developed and transition economies and identifies DT as a strategic capability supporting Vietnam's dual goals of digital modernization and defence logistics resilience.