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The Role of Digital Transformation in Supply Chain Sustainability Development: A Perspective Based on Supply Chain Spillovers

  • Yongchang Shen,   
  • Juan Wang,   
  • Jinchao Ma,   
  • Hua Xia *

Received: 10 Jan 2026 | Revised: 09 Mar 2026 | Accepted: 16 Mar 2026 | Published: 20 Mar 2026

Abstract

Digital transformation (DT) is a core driver of supply chain sustainable development (SCSD). From the perspective of supply chain spillovers, this study empirically examines the impact of customer enterprises’ DT on the ESG performance of supply chain partners, using a sample of Chinese A-share listed firms and their disclosed suppliers and customers during 2012–2023. The results show that customer enterprises’ DT exerts a significant positive spillover effect on the ESG performance of supply chain partners, namely an enabling effect on SCSD, and this effect presents an asymmetric characteristic that is more prominent when customers’ DT level exceeds that of their partners. Mechanism tests reveal that this positive spillover is realized through two paths: supply chain coordinated development and supply chain innovation development. Heterogeneity analysis further finds that the above effect is more significant among non-heavy polluting enterprises, state-owned enterprises and enterprises in eastern China. This study enriches the theoretical research on DT and SCSD, and provides empirical evidence and practical guidance for enterprises to formulate DT strategies and optimize supply chain coordination mechanisms, thus contributing to the improvement of overall SCSD level.

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DOI
10.53941/eem.2026.100003
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Volume 2, Issue 1
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Shen, Y.; Wang, J.; Ma, J.; Xia, H. The Role of Digital Transformation in Supply Chain Sustainability Development: A Perspective Based on Supply Chain Spillovers. Ecological Economics and Management 2026, 2 (1), 3. https://doi.org/10.53941/eem.2026.100003.
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