Economic Zone Research Articles

Informing macrologistics connectivity in emerging economies through a triangulated research approach: the case of Uzbekistan

AbstractUzbekistan has the potential to become a regional hub linking Southeast Asia, South Asia, the Commonwealth of Independent States and Europe. In order to inform the implementation of Uzbekistan’s Strategy for the Development of the Transport System, a triangulated research approach was followed to develop a spatially and commodity-level freight flow model for the country. The model outputs highlight that freight flow distribution is heavily skewed towards the East, that the country has significant exposure to freight risks beyond the borders due to the inordinate long distances of cross-border flows, and that demand for transport, and logistics costs, are high relative to gross domestic product. Transport policy, infrastructure development and the role of transport and logistics in development planning should therefore be prioritised as a strategic input into economic growth and development success, including the intelligence that enables these activities. There seem to be opportunities for domestic and regional consolidation, which can lead to the improved use of rail and intermodal solutions and support the development of effective special economic zones. These outputs can be refined with access to more detailed data.

Inequality of rural residents’ income in China since the targeted poverty alleviation strategy: New trends, causes, and policy implications

Poverty and income inequality are problems faced by many countries including China. Since the implementation of Targeted Poverty Alleviation (TPA), absolute poverty has been eradicated, meanwhile, Chinese rural residents' income and inequality have experienced unprecedented new dynamics, but still, very few studies have focused on them. Hence, we attempt to examine the new trends in Chinese farmers' income inequality and to understand its causes during this period. We observe that China's urban-rural income ratio has been shrinking and the urban-rural inequality has been decreasing from 2014 to 2021. The reduction in the Theil index indicates a decrease in the regional inequality of farmers' income as well, and the decline in inter-regional inequality among eight economic zones contributes about 80% to increased equality. These new trends are caused by the fact that, with the TPA, the incomes of rural residents especially that in destitute areas, grew faster than that of urban residents and farmers in prosperous areas. The higher share of non-agricultural industry and agricultural mechanization level have significant positive impact on regional equality of farmers' income, while urban-rural dual structure has significant negative inhibitory effects. The lowest farmers' income and the highest inequality in the Northwest, and the slowest growth in the Northeast deserve more attention in rural Revitalization. From these findings, we propose four policy implications that would be applied to improve Chinese farmers' income equality, govern relative poverty, and achieve common prosperity in the post-poverty era.

The relationship between coral fish diversity and ecosystem services as an added value for the sustainable development: Evidence in Tanjung Lesung SEZ, Banten Province, Indonesia

Abstract This study aims to explore the relationship between the diversity of coral fish resources and ecosystem services as added value in the development of sustainable Special Economic Zones (SEZs). The existence of SEZs has become an economic focal point, making the balance of the natural environment increasingly crucial to support long-term economic growth. Data collection for this research was conducted through field surveys to assess the diversity of coral fish resources, including species, abundance, and distribution in Tanjung Lesung. The data was further analyzed to determine the added value of ecosystem services to SEZ development, which includes provisioning services and cultural services. The results of the study revealed a significant relationship between the diversity of coral fish resources and ecosystem services in the area. High levels of species and resources diversity positively contribute to food availability for communities, as well as enhancing cultural services, such as tourism. Additionally, coral fish naturally plays a vital role in maintaining ecosystem balance and ensuring the survival of other species in the food chain. The findings of this research provide a deeper understanding of the importance of sustainability and governance of coral fish resources in supporting the development of SEZs. This study also serves as a foundation for policy planning that focuses on responsible and sustainable utilization of coral fish resources to achieve balanced long-term economic development in harmony with aspect of environmental conservation.

Galatheoid squat lobsters (Crustacea: Decapoda: Anomura) from the epipelagic bottom of the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone, with descriptions of five new species

Galatheoid squat lobsters (Crustacea: Decapoda: Anomura) from the epipelagic bottom of the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone, with descriptions of five new species

Optimizing Women's Entrepreneurship to Enhance Family Domestic Income: A Case Study of Female Entrepreneurs in BatamThis study examines the role of women's entrepreneurship in enhancing domestic family income in Batam, a special economic zone with unique

This study examines the role of women's entrepreneurship in enhancing domestic family income in Batam, a special economic zone with unique socio-economic characteristics. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, integrating quantitative and qualitative designs to understand the factors influencing women's entrepreneurship and to develop optimization strategies. Quantitative data were collected through questionnaires distributed to 200 female entrepreneurs across 12 districts in Batam, while qualitative data were obtained through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions (FGD), and participant observations. Data analysis was conducted using variance-based structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) and NVIVO software to analyze the complex relationships between variables. The results of the study indicate that women's education level, access to capital, and family support are critical factors influencing the success of entrepreneurship. Access to capital is proven to be a significant challenge, with barriers such as high interest rates and complex procedures. Additionally, the increase in family income derived from women's businesses contributes to improving family welfare, including children's education, health, and financial stability. Based on these findings, the study recommends the need for improved access to capital, the development of relevant entrepreneurial training programs, and supportive government policies to strengthen the role of women's entrepreneurship in Batam. This study is expected to contribute meaningfully to the literature on women's entrepreneurship and provide a foundation for the development of more effective policies in the future.

Study on the Synergistic Development of New Energy Industry in Chengdu-Chongqing Economic Zone

Study on the Synergistic Development of New Energy Industry in Chengdu-Chongqing Economic Zone

Balancing Development and Community Rights: Legal and Policy Frameworks for Land Conflict Resolution in Batam, Indonesia

The rapid development of Batam, Indonesia, as a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) has led to significant land conflicts between the state, developers, and local communities. The existing legal and policy frameworks have been criticized for prioritizing economic growth over community rights, leading to forced evictions, inadequate compensation, and social unrest. This study aims to analyze the legal and policy frameworks governing land conflict resolution in Batam and propose recommendations for balancing development and community rights. The research employs a qualitative approach, combining legal and policy analysis with empirical data collected through interviews with key stakeholders, including government officials, community leaders, and legal experts. The study examines relevant laws, regulations, and policies related to land acquisition, compensation, and dispute resolution in Batam. The findings reveal several shortcomings in the current legal and policy frameworks, including a lack of transparency and participation in decision-making processes, inadequate compensation mechanisms, and limited access to justice for affected communities. The study also highlights the power imbalance between the state, developers, and communities, which often leads to the marginalization of community rights. The study concludes that balancing development and community rights in Batam requires a comprehensive reform of the legal and policy frameworks. The recommendations include strengthening community participation in decision-making processes, ensuring fair and adequate compensation, and improving access to justice for affected communities. The study also emphasizes the need for greater transparency and accountability in land acquisition and development processes.

A climatological overview of surface currents in the Arabian Gulf with special reference to the Exclusive Economic Zone of Qatar

AbstractThis study derives the climatology of surface currents in the Arabian Gulf using the current velocities obtained from the Copernicus Marine Service (CMEMS) for the period 1993–2019. It reveals distinct temporal and spatial variability in the surface current speeds induced by the variability in surface winds, bathymetry and the changes in the lateral gradients in density. The mean speed of the Iranian Coastal Current (ICC) during summer reaches up to 0.33 m·s−1 along the coast of Iran, while the mean speed of Arabian Coastal Current (ACC) reaches up to 0.26 m·s−1 along the coast of Saudi Arabia. We found the occurrence of 2 major and 1 minor cyclonic eddies in the annual, seasonal and monthly climatology, while these eddies are more prevalent during summer. The major cyclonic eddy in the central Gulf develops in May and persists till November with varying patterns, and decays in December. The climatological mean current speeds are higher during summer compared to winter, due to the seasonal changes in thickness of the surface layer by the stratification/destratification processes. The highest mean current speeds along the coast of Qatar are found in June and the lowest in winter months. The highest annual, monthly and seasonal mean current speeds are observed along the north and northeast coast of Qatar, while the lowest are observed along the west coast and southeast coast of Qatar. Interannual variability in surface current speeds is evident, with notable links with the El Niño–Southern Oscillations (ENSO) and Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD). The annual mean current speeds show positive trends, of the order of 0.06–0.14 cm·s−1·year−1 in the offshore regions and 0.05–0.24 cm·s−1·year−1 in the nearshore regions, wherein the highest positive trend is observed off Ras Laffan and the lowest off Dukhan.

Different Pacta or Different Servanda? Grey-Zone Lawfare and Law of the Sea-Based Passage and Operational Rights

This article examines the vulnerability of the law of the sea to grey-zone lawfare based on the maxim pacta sunt servanda, arguing that this rule can readily be employed as a means of lawfare. Through the broad lenses of (1) passage and operational rights in sovereign waters and (2) exclusive economic zone (EEZ) operational rights, the susceptibility to grey-zone lawfare stratagems and tactics based on both “different pacta” and “different servanda” claims are examined. To this end, the specific issues leveraged to illustrate these uses of the different available pacta strategies in grey-zone lawfare at sea are archipelagic sea lanes passage through neutral archipelagic waters, and due regard in respect of third state operational rights in the EEZ. The analysis of each of these contexts then facilitates assessment of the methodology and rule-source tactics that can be exploited when employing pacta sunt servanda as a means of lawfare in respect of grey-zone operations at sea.

Legal Regulation of Relations in the Financial Sphere in Free (Special) Economic Zones of Friendly Countries in the Conditions of Digitalization (on the Example of China, Iran, Turkey, Egypt, Morocco, UAE)

Legal Regulation of Relations in the Financial Sphere in Free (Special) Economic Zones of Friendly Countries in the Conditions of Digitalization (on the Example of China, Iran, Turkey, Egypt, Morocco, UAE)

Assessing offshore wind plants for energy and green hydrogen production: A case study in the Mostaganem coastal region, Algeria

This study assesses the feasibility and strategic implications of establishing a 500 MW offshore wind farm utilizing fixed wind turbine technology along Algeria’s western coastal economic zone, with a focus on the Mostaganem region. The study recommends integrating 33 Vestas V-235 wind turbines, each boasting a 15 MW capacity to harness offshore wind resources for electricity and green hydrogen production. Utilizing the Wind Atlas Analysis and Application Program (WAsP), offshore wind potential is assessed based on meteorological data from a land-based station, overcoming the lack of in situ sea level measurements. Results show that the proposed wind farm could yield 1361.63 GWh/year of electricity at a cost of 0.89 $/kWh. Additionally, it would produce 28,571 tons of hydrogen at a cost of 2.12 $/kg. This initiative is anticipated to significantly reduce CO2 emissions, by approximately 595,450 tons/year, highlighting the effectiveness of offshore wind resources in promoting sustainable energy production and advancing green hydrogen as a viable energy carrier in this region.

Kawasan Ekonomi Khusus (KEK) dan Pembangunan Ekonomi: Sebuah Studi Komparatif Indonesia dan Cina

Special Economic Zone (SEZ) has been one of the main drivers of economic development in many developing countries. One of the success stories of these SEZs is China. The giant country began its SEZs at the beginning of the 1980s and in several years, these SEZs have branched out elsewhere in the country. The ability of these SEZs to attract investors and spur economic growth in neighboring regions leading eventually to overall China’s economic success cannot be separated from the strong commitment of the Chinese government to developing these zones. However, commitment turns out not to be the only factor for the success of SEZ program. The ability to devise strategic plan considering all factors including the socio-cultural and geostrategic variables is also the key to the success. What China has done to develop its SEZs can be an invaluable lesson for Indonesia who aspires to develop its own SEZs in order to spur regional growth.

Benefits and Practices of Social Media Marketing on Small-Medium Enterprises (SMES) in Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority

In the 21st century, e-commerce technology has garnered significant interest from researchers and management, driven by the internet’s rapid growth. This has enabled customers to personalize websites according to their preferences. This study aimed to identify the benefits that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can gain from using social media to interact with customers, focusing on social media marketing tactics and their advantages. It provided insights into the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in prominent urban areas within the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and the managerial requirements for ensuring consumer satisfaction. The study concentrated on six key areas: profiling SMEs based on specific elements, identifying primary social media platforms used by SMEs in Subic Bay, evaluating potential benefits for SMEs, assessing the extent of social media engagement by SMEs, gathering input on ethical standards in social media marketing, and developing “RJM 24-points Proposed Guidelines for Social Media Practices.” Employing a descriptive methodology, data were collected from 51 respondents via structured questionnaires and supplemented by random interviews with proprietors, IT personnel, and managers. Statistical techniques such as percentage, weighted mean, Likert scale, and ranking were used for data analysis. Key findings revealed that increased brand visibility and feedback were the most probable benefits, while accessibility and advertising were the most commonly used social media practices. Ethical practices emphasize maintaining honesty, transparency, and authenticity in marketing efforts. The study provided several recommendations for improving social media marketing approaches for SMEs. These included encouraging financial businesses to diversify their products or focus on niche markets, motivating entrepreneurs to start micro or small firms to leverage low entry barriers and market adaptability, and prioritizing support for early-stage companies to enhance their chances of long-term success and profitability. Keywords: Electronic Shopping, Small Medium Enterprises (SME’s), Social Media Marketing Practices, Special Economic Zones

Exposure to Transnational Maritime Crime in the Pacific Islands Region

Although the Pacific Islands are strategically located alongside important trade routes, between the Global North and Global South countries and among plentiful fishing grounds, this region is considered among the lowest risk for land‐based organized crime. Grouped as a uniform region, collectively, the Pacific islands are anything but. The region consists of three ethnogeographic subregions with varying colonial, cultural, and legal legacies. Geographically, the Pacific Island states are remote, with small populations dispersed across many islands, some of which are uninhabited, limiting the ability to adequately surveil and protect this extensive maritime domain, creating porous land and sea borders. These challenges increase the complexity of policing the large exclusive economic zones of the region and therefore increase its vulnerability and potential exposure to various transnational organized crimes on land and at sea. Drawing on Kelling and Wilson’s broken windows theory, this article considers from a theoretical perspective, how international law can be used as a framework to guide Pacific Island states in achieving strengthened, region‐led resilience to transnational maritime crime in the pursuit of maritime justice.

Can science and technology resources co-evolve with high-tech industries? Empirical evidence from China

Based on the theories of synergetic and evolutionary economics, we build a theoretical model of the co-evolutionary mechanisms of the composite systems of science and technology resources and high-tech industries in China. According to the established index system of the composite systems, we calculated the steady-state solution of the co-evolve and drew the potential function curve of science and technology resources and high-tech industries in China during 2010–2022 using the Haken model. Our empirical results show that high-tech industries are the order parameter of co-evolve. During the sample period, there is a synergistic growth effect of two-way promotion between science and technology resources and high-tech industries in China. However, within the system, the positive feedback mechanism of science and technology resources to high-tech industries in China is not perfect, and the allocation of science and technology resources needs to be further optimized, with a low degree of system order and large room for improvement. In addition, the endowment of science and technology resources and the development degree of high-tech industries in China are different in the eight comprehensive economic zones, and their co-evolvement is different. Therefore, by combining the advantages and allocating the elements of regional science and technology resources, we can better leverage the comparative advantages of high-tech industries in China and improve the degree of co-evolve in the system.

Implementation of Special Economic Zone Policies in Indonesia (Case study in Sorong Special Economic Zone, Southwest Papua)The Special Economic Zone policy in Indonesia is carried out to accelerate the growth and development of regional economies by estab

Implementation of Special Economic Zone Policies in Indonesia (Case study in Sorong Special Economic Zone, Southwest Papua)The Special Economic Zone policy in Indonesia is carried out to accelerate the growth and development of regional economies by estab

Is it really better to "die" than "live"? Reflections on the practice of "death with dignity" in China.

To analyze the causes of the controversy caused by "death with dignity" in China, and to provide some useful thoughts for the practical exploration of "death with dignity." By combing the periodical literature, legal texts and practice, we find that the Medical Regulations of Shenzhen Special Economic Zone, which was revised and passed by China in 2022, recognized the legal effect of "living will" for the first time in legislation, which triggered a wide-ranging social discussion on "death with dignity" and brought many controversies. Due to the influence of traditional culture, policies and laws, medical service supply capacity and other factors, death with dignity suffers from great practical resistance. The exploration of "death with dignity" system needs to start with the problems encountered in practice, focusing on cultivating a good system implementation environment, strengthening the top-level design of "death with dignity" system, and improving the national social security system for hospice care.

Yesterday's solution: Do national economic and technological development zones promote industrial development in typical developing regions of China?

With the proliferation of special economic zones (SEZs) among emerging economies, their mixed performance has sparked discussions on contextual heterogeneity and underlying driving mechanisms. Characterized by an outward-oriented economy and industry-city interaction, the cross-stage establishment practice of China's national economic and technological development zones (ETDZs) is conducive to expanding existing research focused on cross-country analyses of SEZs. This study constructs difference-in-differences models to analyze the influence of national ETDZs on regional industrial development in the Yellow River basin, a typical developing region in China, from 2003 to 2019, evaluating their performance under a regional balanced development strategy and a within a lagging economic backdrop. The results indicate that (1) national ETDZs do not contribute to industrial growth and even exert a negative effect; (2) while they fail to perform better over time, their spatial spillover effect slightly benefits neighboring cities; (3) an optimal economic environment and proactive policy promotion can respectively mitigate and exacerbate their negative effects; (4) the inability to attract external enterprises and achieve industrial restructuring is the primary cause of the negative effect, highlighting a mismatch and discord between the economic and policy attributes of national ETDZs and evolving contexts. Based on these findings, recommendations are proposed to cultivate SEZs as suitable policy platforms and effective economic spaces.

The Relative Probability of Facebook Friendship in the United States

We mapped Facebook’s Social Connectedness Index (SCI) between adjacent counties in the Contiguous 48 U.S. States. The index is calculated as the number of Facebook friends between counties, divided by the product of active Facebook users in the two counties. The results follow regional science principles that tell us that fewer flows may occur across political (administrative) borders such as state boundaries, and between economic zones, including transition zones between metropolitan areas and hinterland boundaries. We also found low connectivity between adjacent counties that are divided by interstate highways and low connectivity within densely populated areas. High connectivity is found in rural areas, and areas of cultural significance, such as highly African American regions in the U.S. South and isolated regions in Appalachia.

Research on Evaluation of City–Industry Integration in Industrial Parks

The original meaning of city–industry integration should be understood as the coordination, balance, reasonable layout, and mutual support between urban production functional areas and service functional areas, which both have urban populations as their core element. The evaluation of city–industry integration in industrial parks can be carried out from two aspects: land–industry integration and residence–industry integration. The secondary indexes of the former mainly include industrial land efficiency and service sector land efficiency, while the secondary indicators of the latter mainly include supporting rail transit and the matching degree between residence and environment. The output value, land use structure, enterprise profile, employment rates, investments, air quality, rail transit system and other data points regarding sample industrial parks were collected by means of geofencing as well as through the creation of an enterprise credit information database and development area yearbook. The Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) combined with expert scoring was used to determine the index weights and implement the evaluation of city–industry integration. This study found that city–industry integration in Beijing and the Chengdu Economic and Technological Development Zones is at the forefront of sample industrial parks, and the entropy weight evaluation method verified this evaluation result. The analysis of the benchmark development zone of city–industry integration shows that the Chengdu model and the Beijing model are worthy of reference for growing and mature industrial parks when promoting city–industry integration.