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Digital Roots or Digital Routes? Broadband Expansion and the Rural-Urban Migration in China

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  • Ma, Shuang

    (Guangzhou University)

  • Mu, Ren

    (Texas A&M University)

Abstract

This study investigates broadband internet's impact on rural-urban migration in China, using the Universal Broadband and Telecommunication Services pilot program as a quasi-experimental setting. Analyzing China Household Finance Survey data (2013-2021) through difference-in-differences estimation, we find that improved internet access significantly increased rural-urban migration. Effects were strongest in villages with initially low migrant populations, locations closer to county centers, and those with better road infrastructure. At the individual level, impacts were most pronounced among females, younger people, the more educated, and those from higher-income households. Increased attention to economic information, rather than enhanced e-commerce opportunities, appears to drive these migration decisions. Our findings suggest broadband creates “digital routes” facilitating outmigration rather than “digital roots” anchoring residents to rural areas.

Suggested Citation

  • Ma, Shuang & Mu, Ren, 2025. "Digital Roots or Digital Routes? Broadband Expansion and the Rural-Urban Migration in China," IZA Discussion Papers 17752, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp17752
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    migration; urbanization; information and communications technology; China;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • O15 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Economic Development: Human Resources; Human Development; Income Distribution; Migration
    • R2 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - Household Analysis
    • L86 - Industrial Organization - - Industry Studies: Services - - - Information and Internet Services; Computer Software

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