The impact of agricultural trade on green technological innovation in China’s agricultural sector

As environmental awareness grows, the agricultural sector must balance rising product demands with sustainable development. This study investigates the relationship between agricultural trade and green technological innovation, emphasizing how trade-induced efficiency improvements promote input-saving practices. Using panel data from 31 Chinese provinces between 2011 and 2021, our analysis reveals that agricultural trade significantly enhances resource use efficiency, particularly in rural areas where agriculture is concentrated. The findings provide empirical evidence of the positive effects of trade on green innovation and highlight the need for targeted policy interventions to support sustainable agricultural practices. This research underscores agricultural trade’s critical role in fostering green innovation and offers valuable insights for policymakers and agricultural businesses seeking to improve competitiveness and sustainability in an increasingly globalized economy. [Display omitted] •Agricultural trade significantly promotes green technological innovation•Trade efficiency improvements drive input-saving practices in agriculture•Green innovation bias toward inputs in rural areas where trade is prevalent•Empirical evidence supports targeted policies for sustainable agricultural development Agricultural economics; Social sciences; Economics