Competitive Sector Research Articles

Impact and Challenges of SAPS1 on Romanian Agricultural Competitiveness

Abstract This study investigates the influence of the Single Area Payment Scheme on the competitiveness of the agriculture sector in Romania. It also evaluates the impact of SAPS on farm productivity by examining data collected from a thorough survey of Romanian farmers. The survey employed quantitative methodologies to examine a wide array of agricultural enterprises, aiming to offer a comprehensive perspective on the impacts of SAPS. The findings provide vital insights into how SAPS influences agricultural practices and economic outcomes in Romania. The study used statistical analysis to evaluate the impact of SAPS on important factors such as productivity, market positioning, and economic viability. It used the sample size formula n = (Z^2 * p * (1-p)) / E^2 to determine the sample size for the survey, where we estimated the proportion of the population with a certain characteristic (p) based on data collected from the Payments and Intervention Agency for Agriculture and the Z-score corresponding to the desired level of confidence. In this case, for a confidence level of 95% (Z = 1.96), a standard deviation of 0.5 and a margin of error of +/- 5% (E = 0.05), I estimated p at 0.5 (the characteristics of the researched population being quite heterogeneous, even if the size of the holding translates into the amount of the collected amount, nominal differences do not exist). Evidence suggests that Romania possesses one of the most extensive agricultural regions inside the European Union. However, the agricultural sector is marked by a fragmented organization, consisting predominantly of small-scale farms returning poor levels of productivity.

D-shaped photonic crystal fiber based on surface plasmon resonance for low refractive index applications

Here, a fresh D-type photonic crystal fiber has been developed by us, relying on the surface plasmon resonance effect. Differing from conventional D-type photonic crystal fiber, this model coats gold film on an open-loop channel for excitation. Through the finite element method analysis, this sensor exhibits an effective scope of 1.20–1.30 for the refractive index of analyte. As the RI of the analyte rises, the loss peak within the spectrum gradually intensifies and then remains stable. At an RI value of 1.30, achieving a resolution of 9.52 × 10−6 RIU, this sensor exhibits excellent performance with a maximum sensitivity of 10,500 nm/RIU. Its simple structure adds to its overall appeal. The outstanding sensing performance demonstrates enhanced competitiveness in sectors with lower refractive indices. Farther, to enhance the sensor's sensing capabilities, we conducted an analysis of how structural parameters impact the resonance spectrum with the goal of optimization.

A STUDY ON THE EFFECTIVENESS OF TALENT MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES FOR EMPLOYEE RETENTION AT PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY.

This study discusses the critical role of talent management and retention in the pharmaceutical industry. It underscores the sector's competitiveness and the necessity of attracting and retaining top talent. The industry faces challenges like growing competition and evolving employee expectations. Proposed strategies include comprehensive recruitment, competitive compensation, professional development, positive work culture, and technology-driven talent management. These strategies aim to enhance employee satisfaction, innovation, productivity, and long-term growth, ultimately boosting competitiveness in the industry. Keywords: Talent management, Employee retention, Pharmaceutical industry, Competitive compensation, Professional development, Work culture, Technology-driven processes, Employee satisfaction.

Today’s Trends of Software Product Import-Substitution in Conditions of Economy Digitalization

Today software import-substitution in spheres and sectors of Russian economy is a priority trend in state programs being realized in the Russian Federation. The author analyzed governmental decisions concerning software import-substitution, studied software introduced in substituting foreign software at enterprises of Russian economy, showed its developers and prospects of its development. Apart from that, the article underlined that by 2025 according to state programs home-made software shall be used by organizations related to entities of critical information infrastructure such as banking sector, missile and space industry, military-industrial complex, nuclear and mining industry, public health service, science, iron-and-steel making and chemicals industry. At the same time import-substitution policy in general promotes upgrading of the payments balance structure, development of the academic sector and innovation technologies, growth in effective communication with developers of economic projects, where software is functioning, increase in the level and diversity of means and methods of information security, technological independence, population employment, cutting risks and raising competitiveness of industries and sectors of Russian economy. In line with numerous positive moments import-substitution policy demonstrates such drawback as closeness from some innovation of global economy. However, in conditions of sanctions the development of our own software, its efficient use in economic entities can provides cyber-security and technological independence.

Could the EU carbon border adjustment mechanism promote climate mitigation? An economy-wide analysis

Due to concerns about carbon leakage and sectoral competitiveness, the European Union (EU) proposed implementing the carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM). The effectiveness and potential negative consequences of CBAM have aroused extensive discussion. From the perspective of the economy-wide analysis, this study uses a global computable general equilibrium model to explore the rationality of CBAM from the aspects of socioeconomic impact and the effects of promoting climate mitigation. Furthermore, the potential alternative mechanism of CBAM is proposed. The results show that CBAM can reduce the EU's gross domestic product (GDP) loss; however, the GDP loss in all other regions increases. Moreover, CBAM raises household welfare losses in most regions, including the EU. Second, although CBAM can reduce the marginal abatement cost in eight regions, it comes at the cost of greater economic losses. Furthermore, the economic and household welfare cost of raising emissions reduction targets in regions like the USA and Japan is substantially higher than the impact of passively accepting the CBAM; therefore, CBAM's ability to drive ambitious emission reduction initiatives may be limited. Finally, for the potential alternative mechanism, from the perspective of reducing economic cost and household welfare losses, the EU could implement domestic tax cuts in the short-term and promote global unified carbon pricing in the long-term.

Unveiling Small Scale Entrepreneurs’ Insights on Revenue Impact Through Social Media Marketing at Gandhinagar

This study investigates how Small-Scale Entrepreneurs perceive the impact of Social media marketing on income generation. Employing a mixed-methods design that transcends traditional quantitative and qualitative research dichotomy, the research aims to comprehensively analyse the intricate relationship between Social media marketing strategies and revenue outcomes for SSE. The study adopts both qualitative exploration and statistical measurements to capture the diverse narratives and experiential insights of Small-Scale Entrepreneurs, within a sample size of 150. The primary objectives include analyzing Small Scale Entrepreneurs perspectives on the influence of Social media marketing on revenue and examining potential connections between this impact and demographic factors. The research seeks to contribute to academic discourse, inform policymakers for the development of supportive initiatives, and provide entrepreneurs with valuable insights for strategic decision-making. Additionally, the study aims to offer nuanced perspectives on the evolving landscape of Social media marketing in the Small Scale sector. Anticipated outcomes include enhancements in the competitiveness and sustainability of the SSE sector, thereby contributing to the broader economic landscape and empowering individual enterprises to refine their Social media strategies.

Rancang Bangun Sistem Aplikasi Kasir Pintar Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Berbasis Odoo pada UMKM Rumah Makan Tradisional Uni Mita Lintau

The application of information technology on a Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) scale is crucial in increasing competitiveness and operational efficiency in various industrial sectors. In the food and beverage industry, the implementation of a smart cashier application system based on Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) using the Odoo platform has become a significant concern. This research aims to design and build an ERP-based smart cashier application system using Odoo at the MSME Uni Mita Lintau Traditional Restaurant. By combining Odoo technology with MSME business practices, this research provides a solution to improve operational efficiency and customer experience in traditional restaurants. Through implementation analysis and evaluation, this research offers practical guidance and insight for other MSMEs interested in adopting similar technology to improve their business performance. Thus, this research not only contributes to the practical understanding of the application of technology to MSMEs but also contributes to further developments in the literature on the application of information technology in the food and beverage industry.

The Effect of Employee Involvement Participation in Directive Decision Making and its Impact on Employees Creativity: A Case Study of Higher Education in Oman

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to understand how the private higher education sector in Oman is adapting to global trends and industrial partnerships to prepare students for the workforce. Specifically, it aims to explore the relationship between employee involvement in participation, directorial decision-making, and employee innovation in this context, and how these factors contribute to differentiating institutions in a competitive environment. Method: This study employs quantitative analysis to investigate the relationships between employee involvement, directed decision-making, and innovation within Oman's private higher education sector. Through the use of surveys and statistical methods, the study explores how directorial decision-making moderates the link between employee involvement and creativity. Results and Conclusion: The findings suggest that directorial decision-making plays a significant moderating role in the relationship between employee involvement and creativity. All proposed hypotheses were supported, indicating a positive correlation between employee participation in decision-making processes and innovation. These results underscore the importance of directorial strategies that encourage employee involvement as a catalyst for creativity within the sector. Originality/Value: This study contributes uniquely to the body of knowledge on employee creativity in the private higher education industry by highlighting the critical role of leadership decision-making styles in fostering an innovative work environment. It provides empirical evidence supporting the need for policy reforms that encourage participative decision-making processes, thereby enhancing the sector's competitiveness and its ability to meet the demands of the global workforce. Through its insights, the study offers a foundation for further research and policy development aimed at nurturing innovation in higher education.

Brief research report: the evolution of animal welfare legislation for pigs in 13 EU member states, 1991-2020

This brief report characterizes and maps changes in six key aspects of pig animal welfare (AW) legislation in 13 countries in the European Union (EU) during the period 1991-2020, focusing primarily on aspects of AW likely to impact the economic performance and international competitiveness of the pig production sector. National AW legislation in the selected EU member states that exceed the EU minimum levels within the six selected key areas are also mapped. Analysis of changes in AW over time, using legislative texts, academic literature, and an expert survey, revealed that AW-legislation at the national level has generally become more stringent, in line with EU directives, and that a number of member states have introduced additional AW legislation that exceed EU minimum levels. This review helps to uncover historical changes in and can form the basis for further research investigating effects of changes in AW legislation.

Investigating Fiscal Independence across Regencies and Cities in Aceh Province: A Sectoral Competitiveness Analysis

Fiscal independence is an essential aspect of assessing the economic stability of a region. Also, sectoral competitiveness is a vital benchmark in evaluating the superiority of a sector in the economy. The fiscal independence level of districts and cities in Aceh Province indicates that the budget management of all districts and cities in Aceh Province still depends on central government funds to finance regional development. Thus, through a sectoral competitiveness analysis, this study examines fiscal independence across regencies and cities in Aceh province. Using 23 districts and cities in Aceh Province during the 2014-2020 (quarterly data) of Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP), this study applies shift-share analysis. The results show significant variations in the competitiveness of certain economic sectors in different regions. Nagan Raya Regency leads the agriculture sector, while West Aceh Regency dominates the mining and quarrying sector. Aceh Tamiang district stands out in the manufacturing sector, while Aceh Besar district is the centre of competitiveness in the construction sector. Bireun district showed the best performance in the wholesale and retail trade and repair of cars and motorcycles, while Aceh Utara achieved excellence in the transportation sector. The city of Banda Aceh consistently performs best in the accommodation and food supply sector, the real estate sector, and the other services/tourism sector. In addition, the findings of this study also show that from the perspective of the dominance of the highest sectoral competitiveness value per region, there are 6 (six) dominating sectors out of a total of 9 (nine) sectors observed, namely the industrial sector, wholesale, and retail, trade sector repair of cars and motorcycles, mining and quarrying sector, construction sector and agricultural sector. However, this study's findings also show significant potential for economic diversification, which could significantly improve the region's fiscal independence.

Analysis of Gowa Regency's Leading Economic Sectors

The purpose of this research is to analyze and find out what sectors are included in the base sector, changes and shifts in the economic sector and the classification of economic sector growth in Gowa Regency. The data analysis method is Location Quotient (LQ) analysis from secondary data which is time series data for the last 4 years (2018-2021) of the Central Bureau of Statistics South Sulawesi. The results of Location Quotient (LQ), Shift Share (SS), and Klassen Typology analysis show that in Gowa Regency the leading sectors before the Covid-19 pandemic (2012-2019) were the electricity and gas procurement sector; water supply, waste management and recycling sectors; and the real estate sector. Meanwhile, there were changes during the Covid-19 pandemic (2020-2021) where the agriculture, forestry, and fisheries sectors; information and communication sector; and the government administration, defense, and compulsory social security sectors are the leading sectors in Gowa Regency. Based on the analysis, these sectors are base sectors (LQ>1), competitive sectors or have high competitiveness (positive Differential Shift), and include advanced and fast-growing sectors (quadrant I).

MARKETING MANAGEMENT OF AGRICULTURAL BUSINESS: CHALLENGES OF DIGITALIZATION

The article analyzes the impact of digitalization processes on the agricultural sector and the challenges faced by enterprises in this industry. The author analyzes the impact of external and internal environmental factors on the development of agricultural businesses and the problems that delay the development of digital technologies in agriculture. It is noted that an important element of marketing management is a systematic approach that allows establishing relationships between these factors, assessing their impact and formulating marketing management strategies. Based on the results of the study, the author substantiates the need to create favorable conditions for the introduction of digital tools in the marketing management of agricultural businesses. The results of the analysis also indicate the potential of using innovative marketing methods, such as analyzing market trends and using digital communication channels, to overcome the challenges of digitalization and increase the competitiveness of the agricultural sector. The prospects for the development of digitalization processes in the marketing management of agricultural enterprises are considered. It is noted that through systematic market analysis, budget management, and the use of digital technologies and communication channels, enterprises can skillfully navigate market fluctuations while optimizing operational resources. The study provides the conclusions necessary for the further development of marketing management strategies in agriculture, taking into account the current challenges of digitalization and the needs of agricultural businesses in Ukraine. It is stated that the prospects for the development of digitalization processes in agrarian business emphasize the importance of integrating marketing management into the strategic planning of agricultural enterprises and its potential to increase the efficiency of innovation in this sector.

Business digitalization: international experience

At the current stage of the development of the world economy, the relevance of digital transformation under the conditions of increased international competition both at the level of individual businesses and at the level of entire sectors of the economy forms a growing interest in the problems and prospects that become possible within the framework of the digital economy. The world is gradually moving to a digital format in the development of information and communication technologies. The penetration of digitalization in different countries differs in the degree of influence on economic development and the variety of business schemes. Digitization allows not only the improvement of existing business models and changes in business processes but also the significant boost of business and new competitive advantages. The digital transformation of international business significantly contributes to sustainable economic growth, increasing the competitiveness of primary industries and innovative sectors of the economy. Digital technologies allow business entities to automate simpler processes and eliminate intermediate stages in more complex processes, thanks to which the flexibility of companies is significantly increased, and they can now use their resources much more efficiently. Digital technologies are even becoming mandatory for many businesses operating in today's competitive environment, significantly saving time and avoiding unnecessary costs. Digital transformation is becoming integral to modern business, growing from a concept to an essential strategic component. This process covers implementing modern digital technologies and changing the organization's business processes and cultural aspects to improve the company's efficiency, innovation, and competitiveness. However, digital transformation also presents its challenges. The need for changes in organizational culture, training employees in new technologies, implementing data privacy, the impact and politics of social inequalities, accounting for changes in the labor market, and cyber security risks require attention and resources. Digital transformation is not only the introduction of technologies but also a change in thinking and approaches to business. It allows companies to become more efficient, innovative, and adaptive, a critical factor for successful competition today. Keywords: digitization, security, technology, business, transformation.

Industria láctea en Costa Rica: desafíos y oportunidades para su desarrollo sostenible

This article addresses the contemporary status of the dairy industry in Costa Rica, emphasizing the challenges and opportunities it presents for its evolution. A thorough analysis of the industrial structure, production, employment generation, and the dynamics of exports and imports in relation to preferential tariff fluctuations is conducted. During the study period, a significant increase in Costa Rican dairy production is highlighted, and notable challenges are pinpointed, including tariff changes under the Central America Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA) and heightened competition with global dairy firms. Nevertheless, the vast potential for establishing market differentiators and capturing niche segments in this industry is underscored. The importance of institutional backing and the execution of strategies, designed in synergy between public and private sectors, is accentuated. The study’s outcomes suggest that the competitiveness of the dairy sector, both locally and internationally, is crafted through the amalgamation of efforts in pursuit of a favorable environment. The article concludes with recommendations aimed at amplifying industry competitiveness and advocating sustainable growth.

Navigating transatlantic power dynamics in ICT standardization – The case of ETSI

Standards are the foundation of global trade facilitating the compatibility and interoperability of goods and services through institutional coordination to reduce transaction costs, shape technological choices, and market access. Such private transnational rulemaking has faced increased competition in key technological sectors. In Europe, ETSI has been critical for the European telecommunications market in the aftermath of liberalization of national monopolies as Europe sought to enhance market power to attract European and non–European firms to develop key technological standards. With the standardization strategy in 2022, the European Union has requested the revision of internal governance and operating norms of ETSI to strengthen European economic interests and social values. This has generated concern in the United States over the increase in government–based membership at the expense of a more open model. As international leadership in standards continues to be challenged by China, the US and EU have highlighted the importance of values–based standards. This has generated efforts to promote cooperation with strategic partners. The reform of ETSI could be viewed as a defensive strategy at odds with its globally oriented model of standards development and may undermine its legitimacy as a leading open and inclusive standards body in the field.

Adapting fiscal strategies to energy and food price shocks in Portugal

Economies that are dependent on imported inputs are vulnerable to external shocks affecting international prices. Although the effects of these shocks have been widely documented in the literature, strategies to effectively mitigate them remain underexplored. Using a recursive-dynamic computable general equilibrium (CGE) model, we examined the impact of global energy and food price shocks on the Portuguese economy. Moreover, we evaluated fiscal policies aimed at mitigating these impacts by boosting consumption through wage increases, cash transfers, consumption subsidies, and revitalizing economic activities with reduction in production tax. The findings suggest that reduction in production tax is the best mitigation option, as it directly improves sectoral competitiveness, promotes employment, and stimulates consumption. In contrast, a consumption-focused fiscal strategy is costlier and exclusively enhances household purchasing power. Notwithstanding, raising wages inadvertently worsens persistent inflation due to increased production costs and demand. Exploring various financing options is necessary to assess policy effectiveness and consistency over time.

Impacts of gender inequality on international trade and innovation

Analyses of the recent ASEAN dataset indicate that gender inequality may reduce FDI's positive effects on international trade. Gender inequality negatively affects innovation in which international trade plays a mediating role. Improving education and employment opportunities for women boosts the productivity and competitiveness of trade sectors, leading to innovation activities for sustainable growth.

REVIEW OF TRENDS IN APPLICATION OF VIRTUAL REALITY IN ENGINEERING

It is known that the growth rate of the mechanical engineering industry in the world is about 3% every year, and the growth leaders in the industry are motor vehicles, electronic components, communication equipment, computers and peripheral equipment, and aerial vehicles. The Industry 4.0 program is the next stage of the manufacturing enterprises digital transformation, the purpose of which is to increase the competitiveness of the Ukrainian economy machine-building sector. Industry 4.0 aims at the accelerated implementation of digital technologies, including the industrial Internet of Things, real-time big data analysis, artificial intelligence, the new generation of robots, virtual and augmented reality, etc. It is expected that the synergy of IT and production technologies will lead to the change in business models and a significant acceleration of innovative development at all stages from the development to the introduction into production of new products. On the basis of the National Technical University "Dniprovska Polytechnic", the direction of training students under the educational program "Technologies of virtual and augmented reality in mechanical engineering" specialty 133 Industrial mechanical engineering has been launched. The training of specialists with methodological and practical skills in the field of modern technologies of virtual and augmented reality is extremely important for the implementation of the Industry 4.0 strategy.

The role of enzymes in the formation of meat and meat products

The meat industry is one of the most dynamic and competitive sectors of the food industry. As the global population keeps on growing and the demand for protein does the same, the consumers define ever higher standards of quality for the meat producers. One of the key quality criteria is the tenderness and juiciness of meat, which directly affects its taste and texture characteristics. In order to satisfy the expectations of the modern consumers and to ensure the stable quality of the meat product, meat processing enterprises actively introduce the innovative technologies. In recent decades, proteolytic enzymes have been increasingly used to improve the quality characteristics of the meat products, which is a more progressive method in comparison with to mechanical methods of processing due to less impact on other consumer properties. This article overviews the role and importance of enzymes in the meat industry. We will consider various aspects of the application of these enzymes for the meat products, their effect on the level of tenderness, juiciness and other characteristics of meat, as well as prospects for the further development of their using

Trends and opportunities for growth of agro-industrial production in the Republic of Kazakhstan

Goal – modern popular models for development of agro-industrial production are proposed, which are based on factors reflecting current and potential directions of innovative activity in agricultural industry of the Republic of Kazakhstan. In the process of preparing the article, a wide range of general scientific and specific scientific methods was involved: generalization of theoretical approaches, comparative analysis, system-dynamic and economic-mathematical modeling, trend analysis method, dialectical. The theoretical and methodological basis was provided by fundamental developments of domestic and foreign scientists on issues of innovation policy in agro-industrial complex of the republic. Results - the current state of agricultural sector has been studied, including main trends and problems of introducing modern technological and organizational innovations used in agriculture in Kazakhstan. The factors that have significant impact on increasing competitiveness of agricultural sector are analyzed. Forecasts for structural restructuring of production, increasing the level of investment, etc. are presented. Practical recommendations for stimulating innovative activity in agro-industrial complex are given, taking into account its characteristics. The following competencies of agro-industrial complex are defined as basic: creating food potential, ensuring structural and sectoral balance of national economic system, forming technological platform. Conclusions - further growth in the volume of gross output of economic entities is possible in the conditions of significant financial investment in environmental protection, scientific research that contributes to production of environmentally friendly products and increase in GDP in the industry. In general, over the past years, the situation in Kazakhstan’s agriculture has been stabilizing, which is manifested in strengthening of financial and economic position of large and medium-sized agricultural enterprises.