Evaluating the Effectiveness of Digital Trade Payment Systems in Facilitating Export Growth in Emerging Economies
Abstract
This paper highlights the role of digital trade payment systems in improving the export growth of emerging economies. Drawing on a comprehensive review of technological innovations, including mobile wallets, blockchain-based platforms and regional real-time settlement systems, the paper explores how these digital platforms reduce transaction costs, improve settlement speed and foster financial inclusion. Empirical evidence from countries such as Nigeria, India and Brazil shows that the widespread adoption of digital payment platforms is correlated with increased export businesses, particularly among micro and small enterprises. The analysis highlights key theoretical frameworks, transaction cost economics, network effects and institutional interoperability that explain the mechanisms linking digital payments to export expansion. Additionally, the study identifies persistent challenges, including cybersecurity risks, regulatory framework, infrastructure gaps and high compliance costs, which hinder the full realization of potential benefits. Policy implications emphasize the importance of harmonized regulations, interoperability standards, digital identity systems and public-private partnerships to unlock the full trade-facilitating potential of digital payment systems. Overall, the findings confirm that strategic investments and policy actions are crucial for leveraging digital trade payment systems to achieve sustained, export growth in emerging markets.
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