An analysis of the mechanisms through which digital infrastructure and digital literacy affect aquaculture production efficiency

Digital infrastructure has been rapidly expanding across China; however, its impact on aquaculture production efficiency remains an important research question. This study empirically examines the impact of digital infrastructure on aquaculture production efficiency from the dual perspectives of unit output value and unit profit. It does so by integrating digital infrastructure indicators from the "County Digital Village Index" with 435 micro-questionnaires collected through a survey of aquaculture entities conducted by the National Specialty Freshwater Fish Industry Technology System. The results indicate that (1) digital infrastructure significantly enhances both unit output value and unit profit. The enhancement of output value mainly stems from increased investment in intelligent facilities, whereas profit growth is driven by fishermen's digital literacy and the use of digital information channels. (2) Heterogeneity analysis reveals stronger effects on unit output value among aquaculture entities with enterprises. Meanwhile, the effect on unit profit is more evident among producers of specialty freshwater fish than among those engaged in bulk species production. Educational attainment exhibits a directional pattern: higher educational levels are associated with greater improvements in unit output value and unit profit. Policy recommendations include continuously strengthening digital infrastructure development, prioritizing digital literacy training, optimizing the digital aquaculture environment, and empowering aquaculture entities to enhance income and achieve shared prosperity.