Does regional culture of integrity impact corporate total factor productivity? Evidence from China

Abstract

This study examined Chinese A‐share listed companies in Shanghai and Shenzhen from 2016 to 2020 to explore the relationship between regional culture of integrity (COI) and enterprise total factor productivity (TFP) and the internal mechanism of regional COI on TFP. The findings showed that regional COI is conducive to promotion of TFP. The mechanism test revealed that optimizing the business environment, promoting corporate technological innovation, and reducing transaction costs are three essential mechanisms. Further, the results indicated that the enhancement effect of regional COI on TFP is more significant in non‐SOEs and enterprises with high financing constraints.