Water-Saving Efficiency and Inequality of Virtual Water Trade in China

Virtual water trade is widely considered as a potential method to solve local shortage and unequal distribution. However, limited research investigated water-saving efficiency inequality of inter-provincial virtual trade. In this study, we sought explore issue within China based on the 2015 input-output data. A multi-regional model modified were used estimate its impact inequality. Our results suggest that: (1) The total flow across country 200.03 × 109 m3, which accounts for 32.77% withdrawal. agriculture sector contributes highest proportion (73.99%) flow. (2) could decrease withdrawal by 446.08 m3 compared with under no-trade situation at national level, 22 provinces gain benefits through positive index. (3) also causes inequality, exacerbates scarcity exported provinces, especially in northwest provinces. (4) There conflict between conservation but different show significant heterogeneity.