Digital Transformation and Sustainable Tourism Performance: A Multi-Dimensional Analysis of Regional Development Dynamics
AUTHORS
Shuk Ying Lam,Edith Cowan University, Australia
Azadeh Parsa,Victoria University, Australia
ABSTRACT
This study examines the relationship between digital transformation and the advancement of sustainable tourism performance across regional economies. Moving beyond conventional growth-oriented approaches, the research conceptualises tourism development as a multidimensional construct encompassing innovation capacity, environmental sustainability, socio-economic inclusivity, and institutional effectiveness. Using panel data spanning 2014–2021, the study employs a composite index framework alongside machine learning techniques to identify the principal drivers of tourism performance in a digitally evolving context. The findings indicate that digital transformation consistently and significantly influences sustainable tourism outcomes. In particular, digital infrastructure, industrial restructuring, ecological conditions, and real-sector integration emerge as critical determinants. The analysis further reveals that the impact of digitalisation is not uniform but mediated by regional characteristics and institutional capacity. The study contributes to the growing body of literature on digital economies by offering a more nuanced understanding of how digital ecosystems interact with tourism systems. Policy implications centre on strengthening digital infrastructure, fostering innovation ecosystems, and promoting cross-sector integration to enhance resilience and long-term sustainability in tourism development.
KEYWORDS
Digital transformation, Sustainable tourism, Regional development, Digital infrastructure, Innovation systems
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