Unlocking the potential of inventory management: Integrating digital transformation with firm practices

Digitalization has brought a substantial economic impact on firms' production and operation. This study utilizes firm-level data from the China National Tax Statistics Database to investigate the impact of the Broadband China Strategy on firms’ inventory levels, which are an important strategic resource for firms. We find that Internet access and development result in a sharp decrease in inventory levels, particularly in small and medium-sized enterprises. Furthermore, digital infrastructure can mitigate the negative effects of an insufficient supply of transportation infrastructure. This paper also shows that the enhancements in inventory management are attributable to the increased adoption and improved affordability of broadband Internet among firms. We discuss the role of inventory, providing a thorough understanding of the logic behind the enhanced productivity improvements brought about by digitalization.