Spatial spillover effects of logistics infrastructure on regional development: evidence from China

Considering the connectivity characteristics of the logistics infrastructure between adjacent areas, this paper examines the possibility of spatial spillover effects of logistics infrastructure in Chinese regions by applying a spatial Durbin model for the time period 2003–2017 and two subperiods, 2003–2009 and 2010–2017. At the national level, the results indicate that positive spillover exists in each period of logistics infrastructure. At the regional level, each logistics infrastructure variable’s spillover effects vary considerably among China’s three macro-regions: land transport in the central and western regions are significantly negative; air transport is positive but not significant in eastern, central, and western regions; water transport is negative in eastern and central regions; courier delivery is not significant in eastern and western regions; internet is negative in eastern and western regions; storage is positive in eastern and central regions. The findings of this study imply that suitable infrastructure investment in states with different development levels could promote regional economic development. Further, the findings can guide developing countries along the Belt and Road to expedite their economic development.