<![CDATA[Purpose: This study examines the effects of digital payment and marketplace adoption on the sustainability and competitiveness of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Makassar City, with a particular focus on the mediating role of digital literacy. Research Method: A quantitative approach was employed, using primary data collected through structured questionnaires from 300 MSMEs selected through purposive sampling. The data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) with SmartPLS 4 software. Results and Discussion: The results indicate that digital literacy significantly mediates the relationship between technology adoption and business performance. Although the direct effects of technology adoption on performance tend to vary, the indirect effects demonstrate that digital literacy serves as a key mechanism through which digital payments and marketplace adoption contribute to improved MSME sustainability and competitiveness. Implications: MSMEs should strengthen their digital literacy to maximize the benefits of adopting digital payment systems and marketplaces. Policymakers and relevant stakeholders can support MSME sustainability and competitiveness by facilitating digital skills development alongside technology adoption. Originality: This study highlights digital literacy as a dynamic capability that mediates the relationship between digital payment and marketplace adoption and MSME sustainability and competitiveness, emphasizing that successful digital transformation depends not only on technology adoption but also on the ability to utilize digital technologies effectively.]]>
