In the Metaverse: Empowering Rural Revitalization through International Trade

Abstract

Focusing on the topic of promoting rural development and ultimately realizing rural revitalization by participating in international trade through the application of the metaverse, this paper explores the intricate relationships among rural revitalization, international trade, and the metaverse. While traditional international trade holds promise for rural areas, it involves a myriad of challenges, including complex market access, information asymmetry, brand building and promotion problems, logistical inefficiencies, and financing difficulties. In contrast, the metaverse, a shared virtual space, emerges as a dynamic and transformative force that offers innovative solutions to these obstacles. Leveraging blockchain technology, the metaverse serves as a facilitator for rural participation in the global marketplace, effectively addressing critical issues such as the dissemination of information and the optimization of supply chains. Through a diverse array of metaverse platforms, encompassing training platforms, collaborative environments, and immersive simulations, rural producers are equipped with essential knowledge and empowered to support financial collaboration that drives sustainable growth. Essentially, the metaverse acts as a gateway to a wealth of global opportunities, transcending physical boundaries and fostering an environment conducive to inclusive and sustainable rural development. By effectively addressing the challenges faced by rural stakeholders in traditional international trade, the metaverse emerges as a potent catalyst for transformative change, envisioning a future where rural development and international trade seamlessly intertwine within the dynamic landscape of this virtual.

Funding

This research was funded by the Higher Education Talent Training Quality and Teaching Reform Project of Chengdu University of Technology (2024–2026): Teaching Reform of Intercultural Communication Courses Based on Knowledge Graphs, under the leadership of Ms. Jiao Zhang, Grant number: JG2430119.