Cross-border Shopping Research Articles

Ending the obesity epidemic: multidimensional challenges and effectiveness analysis of increasing taxes on fast food

With the continuous development of society, fast food has become a daily choice in modern society due to its high convenience. However, its high-calorie, high-sugar, high-fat, and low-nutrient characteristics significantly increase the risk of obesity. According to statistics, over 2.5 billion adults worldwide are overweight, and fast food consumption is recognized as an important factor driving the rise in obesity rates. This article delves into the multidimensional impact of fast food consumption on the global obesity rate and the effectiveness and challenges of controlling obesity through increasing fast food taxes. These policies face many difficulties in implementation, such as economic penalties that make it challenging to change consumption habits completely and may exacerbate the burden on low-income groups. In addition, Denmark’s saturated fat tax practice has shown that although tax policies can bring specific results, they have also caused problems such as increased unemployment and cross-border shopping. The article points out that relying solely on raising taxes is challenging to solve the problem of obesity, and multiple factors need to be considered comprehensively. The convenience, addiction, and extensive advertising coverage of fast food make it difficult for consumers, predominantly low-income and adolescent groups, to resist its temptation. Therefore, the government, businesses, and consumers need to work together to address the challenge of obesity through comprehensive measures such as strengthening health education, promoting healthy eating habits, and improving food production and processing technologies. This article also emphasizes that although tax increase measures can, to some extent, guide consumers to reduce their fast food intake, their effectiveness is limited and may lead to social and economic inequality issues. In the future, more innovative and comprehensive strategies should be explored to address the global obesity epidemic effectively.

Populating HIA of tobacco policies with empirical evidence on behavioral response to price increases

Abstract Performing Health Impact Assessment of tobacco policies requires to have insights into how smokers will react to policy measures such as price increases. In the Netherlands, a series of 3 substantial price increases has been implemented in 2020 (10% increase), 2023 (10% increase) and 2024 (24% increase). We performed three consecutive studies comparing the ex-ante stated preferences about behavioural response to actual and hypothetical future price increases, and compared these stated preferences with actual behaviour changes 6 months after the increase in excise tax. Two of these possible behavioural reactions actually will impact smoking prevalence or smoking intensity, e.g. stopping altogether and decreasing the number of cigarettes smoked. Other behavioural responses are less favourable and will not impact health, such as buying more and cheaper tobacco abroad and smoking less expensive brands or transferring from cigarettes to roll-your-own or e-cigarettes. For the price increases of 2020 and 2023, we have observed a substantial number of about 10% of smokers quitting successfully and about one third attempting to quit smoking. (Attempting to) quit smoking was much more prevalent among those with a more pronounced intention to stop smoking at the ex-ante measurements. At the same time, cross-border shopping increased significantly as well, with a 10 percent-point growth in the absolute amount of all tobacco consumed originating from abroad following the 10 percent price increase of April 2023. This big increase in cross-border shopping appeared to be independent of distance to the border. We conclude that every significant price increase stimulates smokers to consider to stop smoking. However, unilateral price increases in one country will eventually also stimulate smokers to buy cross-border. Behavioural data as presented should inform HIA to make them more realistic with regard to actual behaviour changes and health impacts of smoking policies.

Cross-border shopping: Evidence and welfare implications for Switzerland

Consumers access foreign goods by purchasing them domestically or shopping abroad. We present new facts on cross-border shopping by Swiss households showing, for example, that prices of identical products are lower in neighboring countries, cross-border shopping shares fall with distance to the border, and price gaps and cross-border shopping shares rose following the 2015 Swiss Franc appreciation. We use a simple model of cross-border shopping to quantify how variation across space in cross-border shopping results in heterogeneous changes in cost-of-living in response to changes in international prices such as the 2015 Swiss Franc Appreciation and the 2020 Covid-19-related closing of the border.

Home is best: Review source and cross-border online shopping

Electronic word of mouth (eWOM) has attracted considerable research interest in the past two decades. This paper revisits the impact of eWOM in the context of international business. Using review data scraped from AliExpress, a cross-border e-commerce platform, we show that the impact of online reviews is related to the identity of reviewers. Consumers are most affected by reviews from their home country, followed by reviews from neighboring countries, while they are not affected by reviews from strangers. This confirms the existence of home bias in the consumption of review information. In addition, the bias is more profound among consumers from countries with higher levels of uncertainty avoidance and trust. Our study is among the first to investigate eWOM in digitized international business. By discovering and reporting how consumers react to reviews with different identities, we offer actionable implications for digital platforms to improve the effectiveness of online reviews.

Consumption responses to sweetened beverage taxes by household income in four U.S. cities.

Taxes on sweetened beverages have become an important policy response to growing obesity rates and the prevalence of type 2 diabetes in the U.S. and other nations. Since 2015, eight U.S. cities have implemented these taxes, but so far direct evidence of their impacts on household purchasing behavior is scarce. Of particular interest to many researchers and policy makers is the response of lower-income consumers to these taxes, both because they have higher sweetened beverage consumption on average and because of concerns that sweetened beverage taxes are regressive. This project investigates the income-stratified household response to SSB taxes using a data set containing the purchasing behavior of approximately 400 households in the cities of Seattle, San Francisco, Oakland, and Philadelphia, all of which have recently introduced beverage taxes. Using doubly-robust estimation of dynamic and heterogeneous treatment effects relative to a propensity-matched set of households in three comparison cities, we find that households in taxed cities experience increased prices and reduce their purchases of those beverages, with no evidence of cross-border shopping. We further find differential tax impacts by income level, with lower-income households (households with income <200% of the federal poverty line for their size) reducing their purchases of taxed beverages by nearly 50% - more than double the 18% reduction found in higher-income households (households with income >400% of the federal poverty line for their size). Our finding that lower-income households decrease their consumption more than twice as much as higher-income households suggests that these taxes may reduce health disparities and promote population health.

Cross-country price dispersion: Retail network or national border?

Why do prices differ among regions without significant trade frictions, such as the euro area? This study examines the impact of a national border on grocery prices in the economically and culturally integrated German–Austrian border region. Based on retail transactions from a large household panel, we analyse price differences of identical products sold within a narrow band along the border. We show that even retailers operating in both countries charge different prices for identical products on each side of the border. Over all products, prices are on average more than 14% higher on the Austrian side. The underlying absolute price differences average to around 20%, but vary over products and time, suggesting limits to arbitrage in cross-border shopping. This study demonstrates that even in highly integrated areas, national borders continue to matter for retail pricing.

Investigation of consumer cross-border e-commerce shopping in China using the theory of EAM

Given that China's cross-border e-commerce (CBEC) industry has garnered significant attention from various overseas suppliers, this study aims to explore the CBEC shopping patterns of domestic Chinese consumers. The objective of the study is to integrate the theory of the e-commerce acceptance model (EAM) and multi-target trust to forecast the cross-border e-commerce shopping (CBECS) behavior of domestic Chinese consumers. PLS-based structural equation modeling analysis indicates that the CBECS intention is significantly influenced by perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and perceived risk. With regard to multi-target trust, seller trust impacts perceived risk and ease of use, whereas logistics trust influences perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use. Platform trust influences both seller trust and logistics trust. These results contribute to the advancement of CBEC literature and practices.

Attitude and behavior of Indonesian consumers in cross-border online shopping

Attitude and behavior of Indonesian consumers in cross-border online shopping

Lobbying against tobacco tax increases in France: arguments and strategies of the tobacco industry and tobacconists analysed through their trade press

IntroductionRaising taxes is one of the most cost-effective measures to reduce tobacco use. France has a unique profile: it has high tobacco use prevalence and a state monopoly on tobacco...

Southeast Asian consumer acceptance of 3D virtual fitting technologies in cross-border online shopping

The purpose of this study is to investigate Thai, Vietnamese and Indonesian consumers’ responses to cross-border online shopping for Korean fashion products using 3D virtual fitting technology. In order to examine the factors affecting a consumer’s attitude toward virtual fitting technology and the purchase intention of Korean fashion products, technology acceptance model, which represents cross-border site characteristics, and technology readiness, which represents a consumer's belief in technology, were used in combination with technology readiness and acceptance model. An online survey was conducted with male and female consumers in their 20 s and 30 s residing in Vietnam, Indonesia, and Thailand. A structural equation model analysis was performed using smart PLS to verify the research model. Among the dimensions of technological readiness, optimism and innovativeness had a positive effect on consumers' perceptions of the cross-border site, and discomfort had a negative effect. Perceived usefulness, enjoyment, and perceived fit had a significant effect on the attitude toward virtual fitting technology, and the effect of enjoyment was the greatest. This study highlighted the role of each dimension of technology readiness by verifying consumer acceptance of virtual fitting technology in cross-border online transactions. It also emphasized the role of perceived enjoyment in technology acceptance.

Cross-Border Shopping: Evidence and Welfare Implications for Switzerland

Cross-Border Shopping: Evidence and Welfare Implications for Switzerland

Cross-Border Shopping: Evidence and Welfare Implications for Switzerland

Cross-Border Shopping: Evidence and Welfare Implications for Switzerland

The Role of Online Shopping in Supporting and Promoting Agricultural Development in Backward Areas of China

This essay tries to explain how online shopping aids and fosters agricultural growth in Chinas underdeveloped regions. The essay first explains the idea of online shopping and discusses its state of growth both domestically and internationally before analyzing the value and benefits of online shopping for agricultural development. Based on this, the article suggests various online shopping applications for agriculture, such as online shopping platforms, rural online shopping, cross-border online shopping, etc., and explores the particular contributions that each of these applications has made to the advancement of agriculture in underdeveloped regions. The paper claims that by extending sales channels, reducing distribution costs, and improving the efficiency of agricultural product circulation, online shopping may considerably assist agricultural development. Online shopping can help farmers understand market demand better, improve the added value of agricultural products, and effectively address issues with information asymmetry and poor logistics. As a result, farmers incomes will rise, and the agricultural and industrial structures will be optimized and modernized. Backward regions are especially guilty of this. The article also emphasizes the challenges that online shopping still has in promoting agriculture in impoverished areas, including a lack of proper policy support, poor infrastructure, and limited farmer network literacy. In summary, online shopping plays a significant supporting and boosting role in the growth of agriculture in Chinas underdeveloped regions. Through in-depth research and practice, we can find more online shopping application modes and provide more effective ways for agricultural development in backward areas.

Cross-Border Shopping on the European Union Fast-Moving Consumer Goods Market: Determinants of Lithuanian Shoppers’ Behavior in Poland

The sustainable economic development of a country or region can be encouraged by cross-border trade as it enables transnational cooperation and encourages entrepreneurs to search for more innovative and socially responsible practices. The Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector was chosen for the research, as consumers purchase and use or consume these products frequently as they satisfy continuous consumer needs. The research supplements the scientific discussion on cross-border shopping and trade by presenting the research results from the Lithuania–Poland border region. The aim of the article is to identify the factors encouraging and suppressing Lithuanian customers shopping for FMCG in Poland. A questionnaire survey was provided in Poland and Lithuania by interviewing Lithuanians shopping for FMCG, and logistic regression was used. Key determinants of Lithuanian shopping behavior in the Polish FMCG market were established, i.e., economic and regional factors, income level, and professional activity. Finally, based on the research results, a model of Lithuanian consumer behavior in the cross-border FMCG market in Poland was composed and might be used and practically applied by local authorities and businesses to manage customer flows.

Development of a Motivation–Trust–Vulnerability (MTV) Framework for Cross-Border Online Shopping: A Cross-National Application to Chinese and German Consumers

Building on the motivation–ability (MA) theoretical framework, we develop a motivation–trust–vulnerability (MTV) framework to explain behavioral decision making in situations of uncertainty and vulnerability. We apply our new framework to cross-border online shopping, which is characterized by uncertain benefits, potential losses, and increased vulnerability of making cross-border online purchases at foreign online vendors. The MTV framework (1) explains the mechanism of cross-border online shopping by considering the effects and interactions of motivation, trust, and vulnerability (2), offers a new conceptualization of perceived vulnerability and (3) is applicable to culturally and economically distinct country markets. The findings from two major e-commerce markets (China and Germany; N = 808) support our framework and suggest that perceived vulnerability acts as an obstacle that prevents consumers from cross-border online shopping. However, in interaction with trust towards foreign online vendors perceived vulnerability positively affects the relationship between motivating factors and cross-border online purchase intentions. Our findings help explaining consumers’ cross-border online purchasing intentions and provide guidance for retail managers and policy makers on recognizing and coping with trust and vulnerability in international relations.

Influencing Factors of Cross-border E-commerce Consumer Purchase Intention in Hanoi

The study was conducted to determine factors in product reliability that could influence cross-border e-commerce consumer purchase intention in Hanoi, approached by the level of trust with a view to improving the efficiency of these vendors. The article builds a research model based on an empirical one for purchase intention on foreign websites, surveying consumers living and working in Hanoi. Data is processed by Smart PLS 4.0 software. Research results show that cross-the border online shopping intention of consumers in, Hanoi is influenced by the level trust of the vendors. A few solutions are recommended including improving platform design, platform policy, vendor reputation, and building an effective cross-border e-commerce business model. The findings of this study will provide useful insights into cross-border online shopping and a good resource for those interested in the topic.

The Analysis of Consumer Behavior in Phenomenology Perspectives

This analysis is in the form of a conceptual analysis. The purpose of this paper is to find out the differences between Asian and European netizens. Asia and Europe have different numbers of netizens. Netizens in Asia have more numbers than netizens in Europe. Netizens in Asia and European netizens often use smartphones or tablets to buy products. Asia has substantial market potential in online business, while in Europe, several countries still need to improve social delivery networks and services. China, Japan, Korea and Southeast Asia are potential markets in Asia, while Germany, Poland, and Norway are potential markets in Europe. In conclusion, the online shopping behaviour of consumers in Asia and Europe is influenced by various factors, including demographics, cultural differences, payment methods, e-commerce platforms, mobile shopping, and cross-border shopping. Businesses catering to online shoppers must understand these differences to tailor their marketing strategies and provide a better online shopping experience. The phenomenological approach is used in research to support the importance of reading and understanding psychological conditions, financial physiology, and other market contexts

Phenomenological Analysis of Consumer Shopping Behavior in Asia and Europe

This analysis is in the form of a conceptual analysis. The purpose of this paper is to find out the differences between Asian and European netizens. Asia and Europe have different numbers of netizens. Netizens in Asia have more numbers than netizens in Europe. Netizens in Asia and European netizens often use smartphones or tablets to buy products. Asia has substantial market potential in online business, while in Europe, several countries still need to improve social delivery networks and services. China, Japan, Korea and Southeast Asia are potential markets in Asia, while Germany, Poland, and Norway are potential markets in Europe. In conclusion, the online shopping behaviour of consumers in Asia and Europe is influenced by various factors, including demographics, cultural differences, payment methods, e-commerce platforms, mobile shopping, and cross-border shopping. Businesses catering to online shoppers need to understand these differences to tailor their marketing strategies and provide a better online shopping experience.

Cross-Border Shopping of Czech Citizens Before, During, And After Covid Pandemic: A Quantitative Research

This paper delves into an examination of the determinants influencing cross-border shopping behavior among citizens of the Czech Republic. Specifically, the study scrutinizes the dynamic shifts in these determinants across three distinct temporal phases: pre-COVID, during the pandemic, and post-COVID. Employing a consistent methodology, we administered three identical questionnaires to gather comprehensive data during these periods. Throughout the investigation, it became apparent that the Czech Republic experienced a surge in inflation compared to its neighboring nations during the final period under consideration. The proportion of families engaging in cross-border shopping reached its nadir during the COVID period and attained its zenith in the aftermath of the pandemic. This nuanced trend is attributed to the economic repercussions of inflation, compelling many families to transition to international shopping practices. To elucidate these patterns, we employed ordinal logistic regression to assess two pivotal determinants influencing the frequency of cross-border shopping. The geographical distance between residents’ abodes and international shopping venues emerged as a salient factor during the COVID period, reflecting heightened apprehensions about long-distance travel. However, this influence substantially waned post-COVID, as domestic inflation rendered cross-border shopping exceptionally advantageous. Furthermore, the significance of family size was pronounced in the pre-COVID era, with larger families exhibiting a proclivity for cross-border shopping. Notably, this correlation diminished during and post-COVID, indicating a leveling effect across family sizes. In summary, families of varying sizes exhibited comparable cross-border shopping frequencies during each period, with a discernible decline during the COVID era and a subsequent resurgence post-pandemic.

Factors Influencing Consumer Online Purchase Intentions of Fashion Products on the Cross-Border E-Commerce

The cross-border e-commerce is expanding more than ever, however, despite its notable share in the e-commerce market, there is little attention on the studies of B2C cross-border e-commerce. There is also limited research that examines the factors that influence consumers to purchase on cross-border e-commerce although there is quite a number of past research that investigates consumers' intention to purchase online. On the other hand, e-commerce fashion is absolutely evolving at a fast pace. What worked two years ago may no longer be relevant due to changing consumer preferences and perceptions. Hence, it is crucial to examine the fashion market and investigate the importance of consumers’ perceived values that may influence consumers’ purchase intentions. Following this, 113 data sets from Malaysians living in Klang Valley could be obtained through online surveys. The data was then analysed to identify the relationship between the variables by using multiple linear regression via SPSS. It can be concluded that hedonic value and social value have a significant relationship with purchase intention. However, there is no significant relationship between utilitarian value and purchase intention. Global managers and marketing professionals who want to increase consumers' propensity for online shopping should consider whether their messages to consumers, the variety of products and brands offered, marketing strategies, and pricing should be more utilitarian or hedonistic in nature. Additionally, managers need to create suitable initiatives to motivate the kinds of value perceptions in consumers that will significantly boost their propensity for cross-border online shopping.