How Does the Digital Ecosystem Foster New Quality Productive Forces? A Dynamic QCA of Sustainable Development Pathways in China

Abstract

The digital ecosystem is playing an increasingly pivotal role in shaping the sustainable development of new quality productive forces (NQPFs), enabling cross-regional and cross-temporal optimization of production factors and efficiency enhancement. To uncover the complex mechanisms underpinning this process, this study constructs a “Wuli–Shili–Renli” (WSR) framework to analyze how digital ecosystems drive NQPF development. Using panel data from 30 Chinese provinces (2019–2022), we employed dynamic qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) to explore the causal configurations and temporal–spatial dynamics of this relationship. The key findings include: (1) the development of NQPFs necessitates the interaction among multiple objects, events, and individuals, and no single condition can be considered a necessary condition; (2) there are four distinct configuration pathways for high NQPF development: application-oriented comprehensive WSR-driven, innovation-oriented WR-driven, talent-supported WS-driven, and infrastructure-supported WS-driven; (3) in terms of the temporal dimension, no significant temporal effect is observed; (4) spatial heterogeneity is pronounced, with less developed regions facing constraints in leveraging digital ecosystems for NQPF growth. By disentangling the multidimensional roles of digital ecosystems in promoting sustainable productivity, this research provides empirical evidence and practical strategies for regional policymakers to optimize digital infrastructure, capitalize on local strengths, and bridge development gaps, ultimately fostering inclusive and efficient new quality productive forces aligned with global sustainability goals.