Regional Business Research Articles

Coordinated Regional Economic Development: A Study of the Relationship Between Regional Policies and Business Performance

Abstract In the context of the global spread of the Corona Virus Disease 2019, improving enterprise performance, promoting regional economic development, and solving the problem of unbalanced and inadequate regional development are important considerations for regional policy formulation. To understand the relationship between regional policies and corporate performance, this study starts with theories related to regional policies and corporate performance, and proposes two hypotheses. The Western Development, Northeast Revitalization of the Old Industrial Base, and Central Rise Plan are selected as typical representatives of regional policies, and the hypotheses are verified through a double difference model. The results showed that regional policies could improve corporate performance, especially for state-owned enterprises (SOEs). The correlation between the revitalization of the old industrial base in Northeast China and the performance of SOEs was strong, with a correlation coefficient of 0.832. When conducting robustness tests by changing time periods, the correlation values between the performance of SOEs and policies in the three policy implementation areas of revitalizing Northeast China, western development, and central rise were 0.887, 0.764, and 0.652, respectively. Compared to non-SOEs, SOEs had a more significant effect on regional policy improvement. This conclusion was consistent with the empirical results of hypotheses 1 and 2. Based on this foundation, recommendations are offered for the suitability of regional policies to furnish theoretical frameworks for enhancing the regional policy structure and augmenting the precision and inclusivity of regional policy development. The research model is utilized to reveal the important role of regional policies in promoting enterprise performance improvement and promoting regional economic development. It can provide strong evidence support for policy makers. The study offers a scientific theoretical basis and empirical support that assist policymakers in comprehending policy objectives and implementation strategies with greater precision. Therefore, the coordinated advancement of regional economic development is facilitated.

Challenging the deglobalization narrative: Global flows have remained resilient through successive shocks

AbstractWe challenge the popular narrative that the world has entered a period of deglobalization, arguing that deglobalization is still a risk rather than a current reality. Drawing upon the DHL Global Connectedness Index, we show that international flows have not decreased relative to domestic activity, there is not an ongoing shift from global to regional business, and geopolitically driven shifts in international flows still primarily involve countries at the center of present conflicts. We propose policy and research implications, warning that misperceptions of deglobalization could themselves contribute to costly reductions in international openness.

International Business in Conflict Zones: The Case of MTN

It is not uncommon for multinational companies to establish subsidiaries outside their home countries, especially in developing regions to tap into emerging markets. It is however a differ ent situation when multinationals establish businesses in unstable and violence-affected regions to take advantage of the local market structure that has suffered a hit by the continuous conflict. How ever, running a business in such regions may lead to distortion of the administration of these firms due to the violence which may destroy infrastructure and harm employees. Many firms are discour aged from investing in conflict zones because of the exposure to insecurity and violence. This paper adopts a case study and case analysis approach with an in-depth focus on the operation of a specific company and its operations in two conflict zones which resulted in distinct outcomes. In addition, a review of existing literature on the establishment and operation of a business in conflict zones was carried out to effectively examine the challenges of litigation and conflict resolution involving MTN Group as a corporate entity in Afghanistan and Northeastern Nigeria and the impact on the business operations in the respective regions. Keywords: Conflict, business, Afghanistan, MTN, Nigeria, terrorism.

Intellectual property protection and total factor productivity of enterprises: A quasi-natural experiment of intellectual property courts

This study reveals that the establishment of intellectual property courts can significantly improve the TFP of enterprises. After a series of robustness tests, the conclusion is still valid. Mechanistic research finds that the establishment of intellectual property courts can promote TFP of enterprises by strengthening regional law enforcement, improving the quality of enterprise innovation, and enhancing the regional business environment. Intellectual property rights protection has heterogeneous effects on different ownership types, enterprise sizes, and product competitive position. Intellectual property protection is highly important for improving the total factor productivity of enterprises and achieving high-quality economic development.

Assessing the Impact of New Silk Road Initiatives on Kazakhstan's Business Environment

This study conducts a comprehensive evaluation of four major regional economic integration initiatives along the New Silk Road in Eurasia: The Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), the Silk Road Economic Belt (SREB), the New Silk Road (NSR), and the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) program. By employing an expert-based analysis method, the research assesses the initiatives from the perspective of the Kazakhstani business environment, identifying critical criteria for successful economic integration, including intra-union trade, market expansion, supply chain optimization, regulatory harmonization, and access to financing. Drawing parallels with the historical Silk Road's focus on trade and economic prosperity, this research employs an expert-based analysis method to assess these modern initiatives from the perspective of the Kazakhstani business environment. Through structured expert panel assessments and statistical analysis, the study determines which initiatives offer the most tangible benefits to businesses in Kazakhstan and the broader region. The findings indicate that the SREB initiative scored highest overall, particularly in fostering regional economic development and business growth, with a total score of 197, followed by the EAEU with 181. The findings reveal that the SREB initiative scored highest overall, followed by the EAEU, indicating their strong potential for fostering regional economic development and business growth. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers and businesses navigating the complex landscape of Eurasian economic integration. It offers a framework for evaluating the effectiveness of new Silk Road initiatives in promoting regional prosperity and cooperation, with particular relevance to Kazakhstan's position in Central Asia.

The Emergence of "Terroir" Cosmetics: Catalysts for Territorial Marketing and Regional Identity

The marketing of products based on local resources and traditional know-how, commonly referred to as "terroir" cosmetics, plays an essential role in regional marketing. These products serve to reinforce regional identity and boost the local economy. Such products, situated within the context of their place of provenance, serve to accentuate the distinctive cultural and natural attributes of a region, thereby facilitating the formation of a robust brand image. Such products respond to the growing consumer demand for authentic, natural and environmentally-friendly products, while supporting the local economy by creating jobs and developing regional businesses. Furthermore, these products attract tourists by offering an immersive and distinctive experience, linked to the discovery of local traditions and artisanal manufacturing processes. However, their success depends on a well-planned strategy to overcome the challenges of distribution, regulation and competition. In conclusion, " terroir" cosmetics are a powerful tool for promoting a region, but their implementation requires careful attention to ensure their long-term positive impact.

Risks of “Social Legitimacy” of Corruption under Sanctions: Assessment of the Sentiments of the Regional Business Community

Introduction. In the context of a large-scale sanctions regime, the intensification of anti-corruption work requires special attention among a number of adjustment measures related to structural changes in the economy and changes in supply logistics. Sanctions become a trigger for the emergence of new corrupt practices. The purpose of this article: using sociological analysis methods, to identify the “social legitimacy” (admissibility, acceptability) of corrupt behavior in the business community as a risk factor for the growth of corruption in unfavorable conditions of sanctions pressure. Materials and Methods. The article is based on the results of a sociological study conducted by the authors using a questionnaire survey to assess the level of business corruption in 2021 pre-sanction and in 2022‒2023 sanction years for the Russian economy among the business community of the Sverdlovsk region (n = 500 annually). In order to compare regional trends with all-Russian ones, the results of sociological studies were used: “Business Barometer of Corruption in Russia” and “Consequences of the introduction of sanctions for Russian business.” Results. Risks to the social legitimacy of corruption under sanctions have been identified: against the general background of a negative assessment of corruption by the business community, there has been an increase in the number of supporters of the position that corruption can help solve pressing business problems, as well as those who are neutral towards corrupt business practices; an increase in the desire of the business community to justify the use of corrupt behavior patterns with the usual “that’s the way it is in Russia” has been revealed. Another risk is the dissonance between values and behavior: “In general, corruption is bad, but in a crisis situation, in my daily practice, I can, even must, use corrupt schemes”. Discussion and Conclusion. The life position of the business community, in which corruption is accepted as an inevitable norm of social interaction, turns out to be a barrier to anti-corruption work. The need to intensify sociological research to study the culture of everyday life in the Russian business community has been recorded. The results obtained can be used by government agencies, the chamber of commerce and industry; the union of small and medium-sized businesses, representatives of the business community to intensify anti-corruption work.

Mapping trade opportunities in Central and South Asia: an exploration through trade indices and metrics

Purpose This study aims to explore the possibilities for regional (intra and inter) trade between Central Asia and South Asia (CASA) by examining several frameworks that impact the economic integration of these regions. Design/methodology/approach The study uses five indices, specifically the export diversification index, export survival rates, export sophistication, revealed comparative advantage and intra-industry trade index in South and Central Asia, from 2005 to 2021. Findings The findings show a twofold increase in the potential trade value between the two regions compared to the actual level. The intra-regional trade in Central Asia accounts for less than 5% of trade with all countries, whereas the intra-regional trade in South Asia accounts for 1.5%, and the inter-regional trade accounts for between 0.2 and 4% of total trade to all destinations. The intensity of trade measurements shows that inter-regional trade flows are modest because they make up a relatively small percentage of the entire trade volume, which includes all destinations, ranging from 0.2 to 4 %. Research limitations/implications These findings have a significant impact on the successful implementation of trading-related measures, initiatives and institutional mechanisms for encouraging improved trade between and within both regions. Practical implications Export diversification initiatives aim to provide favourable outcomes for all parties involved, focusing on expanding the range of goods and services exchanged. CASA countries with higher diversification have shown more favourable outcomes than those relying on a restricted range of products. The authors expect policies promoting a broader array of exports to boost market shares, while maintaining a narrow focus may hinder new export prospects. In addition, regional value chains and policy initiatives promoting trade and investment could lead to increased value additions to exports, technological transfers and job creation. Social implications The study emphasises the significance of trade-related policies, programmes and institutional mechanisms in promoting trade between CASA. It emphasises the need for policies that support investment and trade, adopt new requirements of the Agreement on Trade Facilitation and promote diversity and latency. Originality/value Based on economic analysis, the study offers practical insights and strategies for businesses in the CASA regions. It also provides analytical tools for academics and decision makers, as well as policy and programme recommendations for government agencies, development partners, researchers and individuals interested in trade dynamics in these regions.

Impact of energy saving and emission reduction policy: Empirical evidence from regional and local business in China

AbstractReducing energy intensity (EI) is essential to promoting sustainable development. The “National Energy Saving and Emission Reduction Comprehensive Demonstration Fiscal Policy” (ESERP) is the green fiscal policy adopted by China in an effort to maximize energy use and promote sustainable development. The paper analyzes the influence of ESERP on EI from regional and business standpoint. The results indicate that ESERP is effective in reducing EI, especially when it is implemented in noneastern, low administrative, and high urbanization cities. This policy effect is realized by promoting green technology innovation and enhancing industrial structural upgrading. However, ESERP enhances EI of neighboring areas around the pilot cities, especially within 200 to 400 km of the perimeter. Meanwhile, the co‐implementation of ESERP and smart city pilot policies is beneficial in reducing EI. Additionally, business strategy analysis indicates that ESERP effectively reduces EI of firms, especially in private, technology‐intensive, asset‐intensive, and heavy polluting firms. This paper provides empirical experience for optimizing green fiscal policy and promoting sustainable business development, which has significant policy guidance value and business strategy significance.

British consumer perspectives on terroir in cheese

PurposeThis paper reports on a project looking at consumer perceptions of terroir in the UK, using cheese as a stimulus for the data collection.Design/methodology/approachData collection was based on a consumer survey using a discrete choice experiment which included a number of cues to, and stories about, terroir. Analysis of preferences produced three latent classes with varying attitudes towards terroir cues for cheese. There was also an open-ended question giving rise to a qualitative analysis of respondents understanding of the work “terroir”.FindingsWhen faced with the terroir cues most used some positively to make their choices. A PDO label and stories about the production region and method and business structure all generally offered positive utility.Originality/valueTerroir is a widely used term in the marketing of (especially) wine, particularly in Europe, offering a form of authenticity and has been very important in policies to sustain the economies of otherwise declining rural areas. It has been adopted by producers in the English-speaking world but is less widely recognised, by consumers. The significance of this study is that it is the first large-scale survey of British consumer perceptions around a key tool for rural businesses – terroir – and one of the first around a non-wine product, and it explores the stories which resonate most effectively with consumers.

Financial Performance Analysis at Microfinance Institutions: Case Study at Regional Business Entities Bogor Regency

Financial Performance Analysis at Microfinance Institutions: Case Study at Regional Business Entities Bogor Regency

Strategic Partnership between Regional Government and Business: Effects of Integration

The article examines the concept and essence of strategic partnership between government authorities and representatives of the business sector within the framework of their presence and functioning in a certain territory. Based on the analysis of the features of the corresponding mechanism of public-private interaction, including based on the analysis of current innovations, autonomously or deliberately developing in one or another area of ​​strategic interaction, a list of integration effects was updated, among which the greatest practical significance for direct stakeholders are: economies of scale, competition effect, allocation effect, reallocation effect, protection effect and innovation effect. В статье рассмотрены понятие и сущность стратегического партнерства органов власти и представителей бизнес-сектора в рамках их присутствия и функционирования на определенной территории. На основе анализа особенностей соответствующего механизма государственно-частного взаимодействия, в том числе исходя из анализа текущих инноваций, автономно или преднамеренно развивающихся в той или иной области стратегического взаимодействия, был актуализирован перечень интеграционных эффектов, среди которых наибольшую практическую значимость для прямых стейкхолдеров имеют: эффект масштаба, эффект конкуренции, эффект аллокации, эффект реаллокации, эффект протекции и эффект инноваций.

Examining the moderating role of a leader's emotional intelligence on the influence of organizational climate on job satisfaction among Youth-Owned and Managed Small Businesses (YOMSB) in Sub-Saharan African (SSA) Economy

Even though the role of effective human resource management, including organizational climate, has been cited as a crucial predictor of diverse employee outcomes such as employee job satisfaction, the mechanism through which the organizational climate and job satisfaction can be enhanced or diminished is underexplored in human resource literature. This study dwells on Herzberg's two-factor perspective to push the boundaries of knowledge by showing that the organizational climate-job satisfaction link depends on varying conditions of leaders' emotional intelligence. The proposed model was tested using survey data from randomly selected 602 Youth-Owned and Managed Small Businesses employees in Ghana. The data was analyzed using structural equation modeling with the aid of SMART PLS. The findings revealed that organizational climate has a significant positive direct effect on job satisfaction. Emotional intelligence also exhibited a significant positive relationship with job satisfaction. Additionally, emotional intelligence positively moderated the organizational climate-job satisfaction link, such that higher emotional intelligence enhanced this relationship. The findings indicate that though organizational climate drives job satisfaction, emotional intelligence serves as an amplification mechanism to extract even greater satisfaction in small businesses in Ghana. Our findings make a contemporary contribution to Herzberg's two-factor and important managerial guidance for owners and managers of Small Businesses in resource-constrained regions like SSA.

Market‐incentivized environmental regulation policy and company green transformation: An analytical perspective based on the cost transfer capability of companies

AbstractBased on the carbon emissions trading pilot policy in China, this paper takes Chinese A‐share listed companies from 2012 to 2020 as a sample, and analyzes the role of company's cost transfer capability (ECTC) in the mechanism of market‐incentivized environmental regulation policy (MERP) influencing company green transformation. This paper finds the following four primary results. First, ECTC significantly strengthens the green transformation driving effect of MERP in general. However, results based on the division of ECTC by percentiles show that MERP‐induced green transformation is more pronounced in the top 25% of companies, which distinguishes them from companies in the top 25%–50%, whose cost transfer capacity hampers MERP's contribution to the green transformation. Second, the level of regional economic development, emission regulation, and business reputation have heterogeneous influences on the moderating effect of ECTC. Third, the results based on the moderated mediation model show that ECTC can influence the green transition driving effect of MERP by moderating the two paths of risk‐taking ability and financing constraints of companies. Finally, there is a diffusion effect on the green transformation driven by MERP through cost transfer among companies in non‐pilot industries and non‐pilot regions.

Declining Incidence of Major Lower-Extremity Amputations in the Northern Danish Region Between 2016 and 2021: The Impact of Diabetes and Preventive Vascular Procedures

BackgroundPreventing lower-extremity amputations (LEAs) is pivotal. In the present study we aimed to examine the recent trends in non-traumatic LEAs seen in the Northern Danish Region. MethodsUsing data from the regional Business Intelligence unit we identified all non-traumatic LEAs (n=689) performed in people above 50 years of age in the Northern Danish Region between January 2016 and December 2021 (approximately 600.000 inhabitants). Persons with diabetes (n=26,025) were identified based on ICD-10 codes and data from The National Health Insurance Service Registry, while preventive vascular procedures (n=1,097) were identified using surgical codes. Major LEA was defined as any amputation above the ankle. Incidence rates were expressed as events per 1.000 person-years. Trends were described as differences between the periods 2016-2018 and 2019-2021. ResultsA total of 249 (36%) major LEAs were performed in people with diabetes. People with diabetes were younger (71 vs 77 years, p<0.001) and more frequently male (70% versus 54%, p<0.001). Between 2016-2018 and 2019-2021 the incidence of major LEA declined from 1.76 (95% CI: 1.75-1.76) to 1.39 (1.39-1.39) in people with diabetes, and from 0.47 (0.47-0.47) to 0.20 (0.20-0.20) in people without diabetes (all p<0.001). Simultaneously, the incidence of preventive vascular surgery increased from 2.26 (2.26-2.26) to 3.48 (3.48-3.48) in people with diabetes and declined slightly in people without 0.49 (0.49-0.49) to 0.47 (0.47-0.47) (all p<0.001). ConclusionDespite significant declines in major LEA in both people with and without diabetes, most of the decline was driven by a large reduction in major LEAs in people without diabetes. Diabetic foot, lower extremity amputation, major amputation, minor amputation, preventive vascular procedures, revascularization, vascular surgery.

Preliminary study to consider the preparation of a business strategy for The Regional Public Service Agency (BLUD) in the water tourism area of Gita Nada and Gili Sulat Lawang Lombok, NTB Province

This study aims to obtain fundamental information that will be used as a reference in formulating business strategies for Regional Business Services Agencies (BLUD) in the Gita Nada and Gili Sulat Lawang marine tourism areas in NTB Province. This conservation area has huge tourism potential with an estimated economic value of tourism resources based on Willingness To Pay (WTP) reaches more than 17 billion rupiah per year. However, the use of this tourist destination is still not optimal. This study uses a survey method through interviews with the management, local communities, and related company partners. The survey results show that BLUD business development in this region faces several challenges, among which the most impactful are budget problems and limited human resources. Based on these findings, this study proposes an effective business strategy to optimize the potential of the tourist area. The proposed strategy is expected to increase the income and welfare of tourism industry players in the region, as well as make a positive contribution to the local economy. With the implementation of this strategy, it is hoped that this aquatic tourism area can develop sustainably and provide maximum benefits for all parties involved.

Pre- and Post-COVID-19 Impact on the Tourism Industry in Kashmir and Ladakh

Generally, Tourism includes all kinds of different activities which are associated with tourism industries like hotels and restaurants, tourist guides, transporters, shopkeeper etc on same way, it also include large number of small tourism related activities in different States and UTs because of their geographical areas like Ladakh and Kashmir region their mostly tourism activities are Houseboat, Shakara Safari, Gondola safari, horse riding, Trekking in mountain, Camel Safari, Jeep Safari etc. this type of tourism activities are mostly found in Ladakh and Kashmir region. Because of Barren Land and low agriculture productivity in these regions, mostly Ladakh 90% and Kashmir 60% depends on tourism industry. Tourism generates jobs income, employments; promote long-term growth, benefiting local economies in both the regions. Tourism is huge business in Ladakh and Kashmir regions. Tourism, the country's largest service industry, boosts the state's GDP, foreign exchange, employment, and tax revenue. The Ladakh and Kashmir regions are a popular tourist destination due to its successful development. Suddenly, the Covid-19 outbreak hit Ladakh and Kashmir regions just as tourist season was starting, dampening spirits. Travel and tourism have spread a novel corona virus that is highly infectious. This paper also discusses about the lockdown and has affected the tourism activities in these regions. The serious damaging effects of covid-19 are in 2020, resulting in reduced visitor numbers and travel restrictions, private employments, workers, etc in both the regions of Ladakh and Kashmir. Poorer people (tourist stakeholders) were also severely harmed; the findings show the covid-19 pandemic early effects on tourism and cost.

OPTIMIZING INVENTORY MANAGEMENT: AMAZON’S STRATEGIES IN RURAL SUPPLY CHAINS

The world's largest online retailer, Amazon, has invested heavily in infrastructure and technology to save costs and improve operations. Amazon has the most efficient supply chain in the world due to cutting-edge robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) technology that can improve productivity and worker safety. Amazon's regional distribution centers use advanced algorithms, route optimization technology, and mapping tools to effectively handle deliveries in rural areas. Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, machine learning, and Amazon Prime membership are some initiatives that personalize recommendations and enhance the purchasing experience. To get around logistical challenges in rural locations, Amazon also collaborates with regional businesses and delivery services. To save expenses and wait times for last-mile deliveries in remote places, Amazon has made investments in micro-fulfillment centers to reduce last-mile delivery time and costs in rural areas.

The role of regional tax autonomy, firm size, and business groups in tax avoidance: evidence from Spain

ABSTRACT This paper investigates the influence of regional tax autonomy, firm size, and business group affiliation on corporate tax burden in a large sample of Spanish firms, including non-listed firms, from 2007 to 2016. Our findings reveal that firms located in tax-autonomous regions exhibit lower effective corporate tax rates (ETR), providing new empirical support for the horizontal tax competition theory. Additionally, we identify a positive relationship between firm size and corporate tax burden, aligning with the political cost theory. Furthermore, we find that group-affiliated firms face a higher ETR than independent firms, and that group affiliation attenuates the differences in the tax burden experienced by large and small firms.

Wine and Gastronomic Tourism in the Drama Region

Drama is a wine region in northern Greece with a local economy based on agricultural production. Despite its historical and geographical setting, the wine tourism industry is not very well developed in the wine-growing region of Drama. Although the sustainability of territorial development is often linked to local food and wine heritage, it seems that the implicated parties are not totally convinced. For this qualitative case study, we first conducted interviews with the management of the local wineries to determine the reason behind the low number of wine tourists in the area. Then, a workshop was organized, and all relevant parties were invited to increase awareness through education while also attempting to find mutually agreeable solutions through working group table discussions and the presentation of findings. Taking advantage of and preserving the cultural heritage through the cooperation of the related regional businesses, regional/central authorities, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) was concluded to be an important tool for organizing new initiatives that will boost wine tourism.