The implications of smart logistics policy on corporate performance: Evidence from listed companies in China

Since the emergence of smart logistics as a vital paradigm, it has garnered significant interest from independent firms and governments worldwide, including China. This study aims to examine the relationship between Smart Logistics Policy (SLP) and firm performance both theoretically and empirically. Utilizing data from A-share companies listed on the Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges between 2012 and 2017, this study analyzes the relationship between SLP and firm performance using Propensity Score Matching (PSM) and Difference-in-Differences (DID). The results indicate that SLP significantly enhances a firm's financial performance. Additionally, a heterogeneity test on financial performance reveals that the impact of SLP varies based on ownership and industrial sector. Unexpectedly, SLP has a negative impact on corporate social responsibility (CSR) performance. The heterogeneity test on CSR performance shows that the SLP effect on CSR exhibits no significant difference based on ownership. Furthermore, the impact of SLP on CSR is significantly greater for manufacturing firms compared to non- manufacturing firms. Consequently, this study offers theoretical support and empirical evidence regarding the effects of SLP on firm performance.