Rural Information-Integrated Platforms and Smallholders’ Acquisition of Formal Productive Credit: A Two-Step Approach

Authors

• Jing Ma, China University of Mining and Technology-Beijing & University of Electronic Science and Technology of China
• Jinyue Yang, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China
• Guoyin Jiang, University of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaFollow
• Shuochen Xu, Zhejiang University

Author ORCID Identifier

Jing Ma: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5368-1626

Jinyue Yang: https://orcid.org/0009-0008-0879-1579

Guoyin Jiang: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9199-1222

Shuochen Xu: https://orcid.org/0009-0006-3312-8213

Abstract

Rural information-integrated platforms (RIIPs) represent a crucial innovation in the field of information and communications technology for development (ICT4D). Grounded in resource dependence theory, this study empirically investigates how access to RIIPs affects smallholders’ acquisition of formal productive credit. Using data from the China Rural Household Panel Survey and employing a Heckman selection bias-adjusted mixed-effects logistic model, this study finds that access to RIIPs significantly enhances smallholders’ likelihood of acquiring formal productive credit. At the same time, this positive effect is moderated by smallholders’ reliance on informal information channels, such that greater reliance weakens the impact of RIIPs. These findings contribute to the ICT4D literature by revealing not only the role of RIIPs in mitigating information asymmetry but also the interplay between formal and informal information channels in shaping smallholders’ acquisition of formal productive credit. The results offer practical implications for policymakers, financial institutions, and smallholders seeking to enhance rural financial inclusion through ICT-based solutions.

Recommended Citation

Ma, J., Yang, J., Jiang, G., & Xu, S. (In press). Rural Information-Integrated Platforms and Smallholders’ Acquisition of Formal Productive Credit: A Two-Step Approach. Information Technology for Development.
Available at: https://aisel.aisnet.org/itd/vol32/iss2/18