Artificial Intelligence Empowers the Deepening of China-ASEAN Trade Cooperation: Theoretical Mechanism Analysis and Empirical Evidence

DOI: https://doi.org/10.62517/jse.202511619

Author(s)

Gekun Wei, Liyin Kuang*, Yinghua Wang, Yingying Wei, Fangyuan Xian

Affiliation(s)

School of Economics, Wuzhou University, Wuzhou, Guangxi, China *Corresponding Author

Abstract

With the deep integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and international trade, the traditional trade pattern is undergoing a systematic reshaping. As important trading partners, how the cooperation between China and ASEAN is driven by AI remains to be further explored. Based on an extended trade gravity model, this study empirically examines the impact of AI development levels on bilateral trade using panel data from 2020 to 2024 of China and the ten ASEAN countries. The findings reveal that AI has a significant promoting effect on both total trade volume and export volume, mainly through optimizing supply chains and enhancing trade facilitation. The impact shows asymmetry, with a stronger promoting effect on exports than imports, and the inhibitory effect of geographical distance gradually weakening. Based on the conclusions, this paper offers suggestions from aspects such as facility construction, policy coordination, talent cultivation, and support for small and medium-sized enterprises, providing references for AI to empower the high-quality development of regional trade.

Keywords

Artificial Intelligence; China-ASEAN; Gravity Model; Trade Cooperation

References

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