Modern Economics & Management Forum

This study examines the Dongxing Port on the China-Vietnam border, focusing on analyzing the impact of the "border residents' mutual trade + on-site processing" model on regional economic development. Analysis reveals that this model, leveraging policy innovations and the enabling role of digitalization, has significantly increased border residents' income levels. It has also facilitated the formation of distinctive industrial clusters, driving regional economic growth. Related research indicates that by 2025, Guangxi's border residents' mutual market trade will reach a total import-export value of 16.53 billion yuan, with on-site processing accounting for over 50% of this volume. This effectively facilitates the transition from a "channel economy" to an "industrial economy." However, the model currently faces challenges such as high policy dependency and incomplete industrial chains. Recommendations include optimizing the policy framework, strengthening cross-border coordination, and advancing digital transformation. These measures provide theoretical references and practical pathways for promoting sustainable economic development in border regions.