Research on the Impact of Digital Economic Development in RCEP Countries on China’s Foreign Direct Investment

China’s role in the global economy is expanding, with significant growth in foreign investment, especially within the framework of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) consisting of 15 member states. This study examines China’s investment patterns in RCEP countries, where the impact of the digital economy on China’s Foreign Direct Investment (OFDI) has not been fully explored. Using the Network Readiness Index (NRI) to analyze the digital economic development level of RCEP countries and its impact on China’s investment strategies, this study fills this research gap. Dynamic panel data and fixed-effect models are adopted to empirically analyze the direct investment trends of China in 11 RCEP countries over 19 years (2003–2021) and their correlation with digital economic indicators. The research results provide insights for policymakers and enterprises to respond to the changing economic landscape in the RCEP region.

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