The Pivotal Role of Digital Trust in the Sustainable Development of E-Commerce: The Invisible Infrastructure

The digital economy, with e-commerce at its forefront, has become one of the pillars of global economic growth. However, its sustainable development does not depend solely on technological infrastructures; rather, it is closely linked to a less tangible yet far more critical factor: digital trust. This article argues that digital trust constitutes the invisible infrastructure that underpins the long-term sustainability and success of e-commerce ecosystems. Through a systematic analysis of a comprehensive research study that employed a mixed-methods approach combining Grounded Theory and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), this article examines the multidimensional nature of digital trust. Conducted within the context of a rapidly digitalizing economy, the study demonstrates that digital trust is a complex, context-dependent phenomenon deeply influenced by institutional, legal, cultural, and experiential factors, rather than being merely a function of technical security. The analysis identifies the causal conditions, contextual factors, and intervening variables that shape digital trust and ultimately lead to strategic actions and tangible outcomes for the sustainability of e-commerce. The findings indicate that the sustainable development of e-commerce requires a holistic and governance-oriented approach to digital trust that extends beyond a purely technical focus and incorporates legal frameworks, institutional coherence, and positive user-citizen experiences. Finally, an operational policy-action matrix is proposed to guide policymakers and e-commerce stakeholders in developing a trust-based ecosystem capable of fostering economic growth, social equity, and long-term digital resilience.