Digital agriculture for sustainable development in China: The promise of computerization

The pivotal role of computer technology in augmenting crop productivity, optimizing supply chain management in food production, and reducing wastage through precision agriculture techniques is undeniable. The utilization of computers has significantly transformed the field of food production, enhancing effectiveness, environmental sustainability, and economic viability. This study examines the asymmetric and long-term effects of computer usage on grain output in the selected Chinese provinces. Additionally, it investigates the impact of other variables, such as energy use and the application of pesticides and fertilizers on grain yields. To analyze the dataset spanning from 2002 to 2020, the researchers employed the FGLS, D-K, and Dumitrescu-Hurlin causality methods. The study's findings underscore the substantial positive impact of computer utilization on grain production. Besides, fertilizer application and adoption of irrigation practices positively influence grain yields. Conversely, the utilization of pesticides, power consumption, and rural labor engagement exhibit a negative impact on grain output. Therefore, evaluating the potential of investing in sophisticated technologies, considering multiple elements including local conditions, the availability of financial resources, and the role of agricultural industrialization in regional development is imperative. We discuss the policy implications of these findings in detail in the Conclusion section.