The Impact of Digitalisation on Supply Chain Competitiveness: A Multi-Country Comparative Approach

Alexandra Constantin (), Maxim Cetulean, Cezara-Georgiana Radu, Edi-Cristian Dumitra and Andreea Teodora Iacob
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Alexandra Constantin: Department of Economic Doctrines and Communication, Bucharest University of Economic Studies, 010374 Bucharest, Romania
Maxim Cetulean: Doctoral School of Economics I, Bucharest University of Economic Studies, 010374 Bucharest, Romania
Cezara-Georgiana Radu: Department of Economic Doctrines and Communication, Bucharest University of Economic Studies, 010374 Bucharest, Romania
Edi-Cristian Dumitra: Department of Economic Doctrines and Communication, Bucharest University of Economic Studies, 010374 Bucharest, Romania
Andreea Teodora Iacob: Doctoral School of Economics I, Bucharest University of Economic Studies, 010374 Bucharest, Romania

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 9, 1-14

Abstract: Digitalisation plays a crucial role in enhancing the competitiveness of the global supply chain, primarily by improving trade openness and efficiency. The current study examined the impact of digital transformation on supply chains by analysing key digital and logistical factors over three Eastern European countries: Bulgaria, Poland, and Romania. Using multifactorial linear regression on data collected from 2013 to 2022, the present research paper evaluated and highlights the influence of broadband penetration, ICT graduates, and transport infrastructure over trade openness. The findings revealed a differentiated impact between the three analysed countries, such as a significant enhancement provided by broadband in Poland and Romania, ICT graduates having a low influence in Bulgaria, and air and rail transport not exhibiting a strong relationship with trade openness in all three countries. These results highlight the need for stronger policies that integrate the adoption of digital technologies, workforce development, and investment in infrastructure to enhance supply chain efficiency. Nevertheless, the present study contributes to the on-growing research trends over digitalisation’s role in trade and supply chain management while providing valuable insights for policymakers and business leaders in the current digital economy.

Keywords: supply chain; digitalisation; competitiveness; trade openness; multi-country comparative approach (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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