Agricultural Economics Research Articles

Production of Starch-Based Flexible Food Packaging in Developing Countries: Analysis of the Processes, Challenges, and Requirements

Biodegradable packaging offers an affordable and sustainable solution to global pollution, particularly in developing countries with limited recycling infrastructure. Starch is well suited to develop biodegradable packages for foods due to its wide availability and simple, low-tech production process. Although the development of starch-based packaging is well documented, most studies focus on the laboratory stages of formulation and plasticization, leaving gaps in understanding key phases such as raw material conditioning, industrial-scale molding, post-production processes, and storage. This work evaluates the value chain of starch-based packaging in developing countries. It addresses the challenges, equipment, and process conditions at each stage, highlighting the critical role of moisture resistance in the final product’s functionality. A particular focus is placed on replacing single-use plastic packaging, which dominates food industries in regions with agricultural economies and rich biodiversity. A comprehensive analysis of starch-based packaging production, with a detailed understanding of each stage and the overall process, should contribute to the development of more sustainable and scalable solutions, particularly for the replacement of single-use packages, helping to protect vulnerable biodiverse regions from the growing impact of plastic waste.

A Class of Time Series Analysis Model with Grey Item and Its Application

Abstract In this paper, we use the grey system theory and time series analysis, put forward the grey time series model, analyze the kind of model, and give model-building and forecasting methods. It is applied in agriculture with total output value and grain output value. The forecasting test has proved the model's correctness. This method can be extended to various fields, including educational statistics. Keywords: Time series analysis, AR model, Grey system, Forecasting, Agriculture economy, Educational.

Addressing Climate Change Challenges in Thailand’s Agricultural Economy

Climate change is rapidly intensifying, leading to a surge in climate-related disasters worldwide. Thailand's agricultural sector, a cornerstone of its economy and food security, is particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of these climatic shifts. This study delves into the multifaceted challenges faced by stakeholders in Thailand's agricultural sector, shedding light on the impact of climate change on their livelihoods and the broader food security landscape. Through in-depth interviews and thematic analysis, this research explores the experiences and perspectives of key stakeholders within the agricultural community. Participants consistently highlighted the disruptive influence of erratic rainfall patterns and rising temperatures on crop productivity and economic stability. These climate-induced challenges have exacerbated food shortages, compromised livelihoods, and heightened food insecurity. The study also underscores the critical importance of food security and the imperative to adopt resilient agricultural practices. To mitigate the impacts of climate change, it is essential to integrate climate change education into the Thai education system. This will equip future generations of farmers with the knowledge and skills necessary to adapt to changing climatic conditions and implement sustainable agricultural strategies.

Fostering Sustainable Communities: Competencies and Training Needs for Social Organic Farming in Hungary, Greece, and Italy

This study examines key competencies in social organic farming (SOF) as perceived by stakeholders in Hungary, Greece, and Italy, including necessary knowledge, skills, and attitudes. It also explores the educational and professional requirements for those aiming to become social organic farmers, ultimately contributing to an ideal farmer profile. Through qualitative methods, such as semi-structured interviews with stakeholders, the study identifies essential competencies and training needs for SOF. Results show that successful social organic farmers must understand organic farming principles, social work, farm economics, and possess personal skills like empathy, team-work, and effective communication. These competencies and training align with Social Capital Theory, Diffusion of Innovation Theory, and Community-Based Participatory Research, under-scoring the importance of social networks, community engagement, and innovation in advancing sustainable and inclusive agricultural practices. The study also highlights SOF's role in supporting community well-being, enhancing sustainable food systems, and promoting both physical and mental health. Findings offer valuable insights into the limited literature on SOF, providing actionable recommendations for vocational training programs that support social organic farmers’ growth across Europe. This, in turn, fosters sustainable agriculture, circular economies, and public health, thereby strengthening community resilience and ecological stability.

Assessing research output quality in agricultural economics

AbstractA strong research program is crucial for academic faculty, as it influences promotions, tenure, salary raises, and professional recognitions/awards. We summarize relative journal rating/ranking metrics from multiple sources, and for selected journals commonly targeted by agricultural economists, to provide insights on their perceived value. We also present combined results from a survey, measuring perceptions of agricultural economists in the US regarding research quantity/quality expectations for tenure/promotion, and actual research metrics from CVs of faculty in US higher education institutions who recently received tenure. We hope this article provides useful insights for junior faculty to better understand the assessment of their research output.

Constraints Encountered by Groundnut Growers in Adopting Recommended TNAU Groundnut Production Technologies in Villupuram District

Background: Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is a vital crop for the agricultural economy in Villupuram district, Tamil Nadu. Despite the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University’s (TNAU) recommended production technologies aimed at improving yield and sustainability, adoption rates among groundnut growers remain low. This study investigates the challenges faced by these farmers in adopting these technologies. Methods: The study employs an ex-post facto research design, focusing on Melmalayanur and Vallam blocks within Villupuram district. A total of 120 groundnut growers were randomly selected from four villages. Primary data was collected using a structured interview schedule, while secondary data was sourced from relevant agricultural reports and publications. Constraints faced by farmers were analyzed using Garrett’s ranking technique. Result: The study identified key constraints impacting technology adoption, ranked by severity. Non-sremunerative prices and price fluctuations emerged as the most significant barrier, followed by high input costs and inadequate credit facilities. Other notable challenges included a lack of timely and appropriate extension services, insufficient technical know-howand pest and disease infestations. Scarcity and high wages of labor, inadequate processing machinesand delays in the availability of inputs further hindered adoption rates.

Assessing the Functionality of Groundwater Markets in Green Revolution States of India: A Case Study of Punjab and Haryana

The rapid development of groundwater irrigation in the changing dynamics of the Indian agricultural economy has increased the emphasis on the growing and complex role of the informal institution of groundwater markets. This study examines the form, functioning and impact of groundwater markets in the different regions of India’s Green Revolution states of Punjab and Haryana. The cross-sectional analysis of 400 farmers highlights that around 26% and 33% of farmers in Punjab and Haryana participate in groundwater market-based activities, respectively. A significant disparity in net earnings was observed among rice growers, with farmers dependent on purchased groundwater earning the least in both Punjab and Haryana. In contrast, earnings from wheat showed no notable variation among groundwater users across the two states. The key factors influencing the decision to purchase groundwater were the size of agricultural landholdings and the extent of land fragmentation in both states. On the other hand, rising tubewell maintenance costs encouraged the sale of groundwater.

Live attenuated goatpox vaccination in pregnant Murcia-Granada goats: dosage implications and outcomes

BackgroundInfectious diseases, particularly the Goatpox virus (GTPV) from the Poxviridae family, significantly impact livestock health and agricultural economies, especially in developing regions. Recent GTPV outbreaks in previously eradicated areas underscore the need for effective control measures, with vaccination being the most reliable strategy. This study investigates the effects of administering standard and double doses of live attenuated goatpox vaccine in pregnant Murcia-Granada goats, a non-native breed in Iran, to determine optimal vaccination protocols.ResultsIn 2018, 400 healthy and pregnant Murcia Granada goats imported from Spain were divided into groups of 200 and vaccinated with either a standard dose (0.5 ml) or a double dose (single 0.9 ml injection) of live attenuated goatpox vaccine. Post-vaccination, the goats were monitored daily for clinical signs of infection, with samples collected for PCR analysis to detect the presence of GTPV strains. In group A, which received the standard vaccine dose, no abortions or vaccine-related side effects were observed, and body temperatures remained normal. In group B, administered a double dose, 37% of the goats experienced abortions, displaying signs of GTPV infection, such as skin lesions (pox lesions) and increased body temperatures. Molecular analysis confirmed the vaccine strain of GTPV as the infection source, ruling out external contamination. Statistical analysis showed no significant differences in abortion rates concerning gestational age or t he age of the pregnant goats.ConclusionThe study highlights the importance of adhering to standard vaccine dosages in pregnant Murcia Granada goats to prevent adverse outcomes like abortions. This study emphasizes the necessity to review and revise vaccination protocols tailored to specific breeds and varying maintenance conditions, including pregnancy and outbreak scenarios. These findings stress the necessity for cautious and tailored vaccination strategies to ensure the safety and efficacy of vaccines in different goat breeds.

Land reform catalysts of capitalism and communism: 150 years of agricultural change in Romania

This paper presents a comprehensive overview of historical Romanian agricultural changes from the nineteenth to the twenty-first centuries, focusing on the main land reforms and their effects on land ownership patterns, spatial disparities and their consequences on individual farms. The study follows a stepwise chronological approach covering these major historical periods: modern Romania before the First World War; Romania in the interwar period and during the Second World War; Communist Romania; and Post-communist Romania. Four major land reforms took place in Romania (in 1864, 1921, 1945 and 1991) within distinct political, economic and social historical contexts. One of the aims of these land reforms was to increase the individual rights of peasants, typically associated with the creation of individual households in agricultural economies. Moreover, this study provides a geographical examination of how the land reforms acted as a catalyst for the transition from capitalism to communism, and later, back to capitalism.

TECHNOLOGY FOR IN VITRO REARING OF PARASITICS

The technology of in vitro propagation of parasitic entomophages is a very important process. This direction is very important for the agricultural economy. An average of 1.8-2.2 million dollars is spent on the propagation of parasitic entomophages in our country per year. If we introduce the technology of in vitro propagation of parasitic entomophages, this will reduce costs by 2-3 times. Propagating parasitic organisms in this way will save significant economic costs. The studies on in vitro rearing Hymenoptera have been conducted successfully in Uzbekistan. For these parasites, cooking and the three main types of media were made from the hemolymph of the wax moth (G.melonnella) and cotton worm Helicoverpa armigera (Heliothis armigera), egg yolk, natural milk 10%. Mass production of in vitro reared Braconidae and Trichogrammatidae its utilization in the fields showed good effectiveness in controlling agricultural economy.

An Analytical Study On The Correlation Between Soybean And Palm Oil Prices And The Interplay Of Market Forces

This paper studies the price relationship between two important agricultural commodities: soybean oil and palm oil. For the analysis the following statistical methods – Pearson correlation and multivariate regression – have been used on a simulated dataset over a fifteen-year period. The present study unwraps the economic, environmental, and policy factors that contribute to their interconnected nature. While the results show a strong positive correlation between the two future prices, the outcomes also provide a much broader perspective on the role of economic conditions, including the global supply chain and demand spillover. Moreover, environmental trends and policy shifts together shape future price trends equally. In addition, the paper forecasts the possible future price trend of each commodity using ARIMA and helps to determine the market direction. This research contributes to the broader discussion on agricultural economics and commodity markets, offering a data-driven perspective that supports strategic planning and informed action in the face of market uncertainties and environmental challenges

Strategies for Teaching Natural Hazards to Children in Rural Communities

This research focuses on teaching strategies for natural hazards in rural educational communities, centring on El Abanico, a seismic region in Argentina with a history of destructive earthquakes. Geomorphological, tectonic, and climatic processes amplify hazards, while socio-economic factors, including a predominantly agricultural economy, informal housing, reliance on irrigation, and limited services, increase community vulnerability.The Tierra del Fuego School serves students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds, and its structure was severely affected by seismic and flood events in 2021. An assessment revealed deficiencies in disaster risk management within the community. In response, an intervention was implemented at the school using educational strategies focused on natural hazards, distinct from formal classroom learning and adapted to the rural context. This intervention engaged children aged 9 to 11 over a year.The objective was to explore children’s understanding of hazards in their territory, develop knowledge through interaction with the physical environment, encourage children’s expression and experiential knowledge, formulate disaster response strategies, foster resilience and preparedness, and analyse the potential for replicating these initiatives in other rural communities.The findings revealed a significant increase in knowledge of natural hazards and risk prevention among both students and teachers. The project culminated in the creation of a book that amplified the children's voices and disseminated the seismic history of the region, fostering improved seismic risk management. The educational strategies are replicable in other rural schools and can positively influence disaster risk reduction strategies while enhancing community resilience.

Research on Device and Sensing Technology for Precision Seeding of Potato

The potato industry is crucial to the development of the agricultural economy, and mechanized seeding is an effective aid to its modernization. Due to the metering devices having different sizes and structures, and even control, operation of sudden instability and other characteristics, and the complexity and variability of the farmland environment and other reasons, the mechanical sowing process may be affected by internal and external random and unpredictable factors, thus causing seed potato leakage, reseeding, and other phenomena and resulting in a decline in the quality of potato sowing brought about by the cascade effect: the quality and yield decline, precision sowing has become the modern potato production in the problem of modern potato production needs to be solved. This paper reviews the potato planter around the seeding quality of single seeding, plant spacing, depth and other directions of device optimization and digital sensing technology innovation involved, which single seeding direction from a variety of metering devices and the use of other sowing methods of potato planter detection, replanting, metering and other parts of the entry, and the introduction of the other field crops crop related research to provide a more comprehensive perspective. The advantages and disadvantages of the related research were compared and the existing problems were analyzed, and the future development direction of potato precision sowing technology was prospected.

A Comprehensive Review of Plant Based Extracts for Preventing and Controlling Candida albicans

A common fungal pathogen Candida albicans can cause infections ranging from simple mucosal infections to serious systemic illnesses especially in people with weakened immune systems. Normally found in the human microbiome it turns harmful when the immune system is weakened. Its dimorphism—the capacity to transition between hyphal, and yeast forms—is a primary factor contributing to its pathogenicity, and is essential for both tissue penetration, and dissemination. This transition is crucial for tissue invasion, biofilm formation, and dissemination within the host. The infection mechanism involves adhesion to host cells, biofilm formation, epithelial invasion, and bloodstream dissemination. Furthermore, Candida albicans may use different carbon sources to adapt metabolically increasing its survival in a variety of host environments. Recent study revealed that Candida albicans possesses a parasexual cycle that allows for genetic diversity without requiring sexual reproduction. Plant-based remedies have become viable substitutes for conventional pharmaceutical antifungals with benefits including a decreased chance of drug resistance, fewer side effects, and cheaper expenses. Plant extracts offer several advantages, including a reduced likelihood of resistance development, fewer adverse side effects, and lower treatment costs. In particular, herbal medicines are emerging as safer, more sustainable options for managing C. albicans infections. As a result, plant based treatments are becoming increasingly recognized for their role in supporting antifungal therapy and enhancing overall treatment efficacy. In treating Candida albicans infections, herbal medicine is becoming more and more recognized as a useful tool due to its ability to offer safer, and more sustainable treatments. This pathogen can severely reduce crop yield and quality, posing a significant threat to global food security and agricultural economies, particularly in regions where these crops are staples. This review as an attempt to study their potential to address some of the limitations of current antifungal therapies, such as toxicity and resistance against C. albicans makes them an important area of research.

Accurate Paddy Rice Mapping Based on Phenology-Based Features and Object-Based Classification

Highly accurate rice cultivation distribution and area extraction are essential to food security. Moreover, Inner Mongolia, whose slogan is “from scientific rice to world rice”, is an essential national rice production base. However, high-quality rice mapping products at high resolutions are still scarce around the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. This condition is not conducive to rational planning of farmland resources, maintaining food security, and promoting sustainable growth of the local agricultural economy. In this study, the rice backscattering intensity difference index from the vertically polarized backscatter intensity of Sentinel-1 and the phenology differential index from the spectral indices of two critical rice phenological phases of Sentinel-2 images were constructed. Other spectral features, including spectral indices, tasseled cap, and texture features, were computed using simple non-iterative clustering (SNIC) to achieve image segmentation. These variables served as input features for the random forest (RF) algorithm. Results reveal that employing the RF with the SNIC segmentation algorithm and combining it with optical and synthetic aperture radar data is an effective way to extract data on rice in mid-latitude regions. The overall accuracy and kappa coefficient are 0.98 and 0.967, correspondingly. The accuracy for rice is 0.99, as proven by empirical data. These results meet the requirements of regional rice cultivation assessment and area monitoring. Furthermore, owing to its resilience against longitude-associated influences, the model discerns rice across diverse regions and multiple years, achieving an R2 of 0.99. This capability significantly bolsters efforts to improve regional food security and the pursuit of sustainable development.

Production economics of jute farming in Sunsari district, Nepal

Jute cultivation has shown decreasing trend in recent years globally despite the prospective demand. Being labor-intensive, with labor making up over 70% of the entire cost and technological advancements still not evident in farmers' fields limits productivity of jute in Nepal. This study aims to analyze the economic viability of jute production, factors affecting it and constraints of jute production in Sunsari district, Nepal. Well-structured and pretested interview schedule was used to acquire required data from 120 jute cultivators of Bhokhraha Narsingh and Duhabi municipality using random and purposive sampling technique. Benefit-cost ratio analysis and multiple regression were conducted using Excel 2019 and SPSS Version 25. Jute production is found profitable as shown by positive gross margin and the average Benefit-Cost ratio of 1.52. Highest education of the family, machinery and subsidy were positively significant with Benefit-cost ratio. Number of economically active female members had shown negative influence on benefit-cost ratio of jute production. Distance to nearest extension service center showed highly significant negative relation with benefit-cost ratio implying increasing distance lowers BC ratio by a greater extent. High cost of production and labor problem were ranked as major problem in sustainable jute production. To increase the jute productivity and sustainability, this study recommends focusing on labor issues and enhancing technology interventions. The findings of this study offer policymakers a foundation to implement strategies that strengthen jute production, fostering both economic stability and environmental sustainability in Sunsari district, Nepal.

Formation of Food Supply of the aAgrarian Sector of Ukraine on the Basis of Restoration of the Development of Rural Areas

This article is relevant because it examines the food supply system in the agrarian sector of Ukraine, considering the socio-economic component of rural development and the integration of sustainable agricultural systems. The research aims to explore and propose a functional model for the food supply of the agrarian sector in Ukraine. The research involved analysing the differentiation in food costs among different social groups of the population. The findings of the study present a hierarchical five-dimensional framework for the formation of the agrarian sector’s food supply. The article provides insights into the assessment of food supply stability, food costs, food independence, economic accessibility, rural household trends, and strategies for rural development in Ukraine. It can be useful for policymakers, agricultural economists, researchers, and organizations involved in rural development, agricultural planning, and food security.

Challenges Faced by Start-up Entrepreneurs in Agriculture Sector to Access Finance: A Case of Agro-dealers in Zambia's Central Province

<i>Background:</i> This study evaluated financial barriers limiting the growth and sustainability of agro-dealers in Zambia's Central Province. It also examined the impact of these challenges on the agricultural supply chain, assessed the adequacy of existing financial services, and investigated the role of government policies, financial institutions, and development programs in facilitating or hindering access to finance. <i>Methods:</i> Using a cross-sectional design, the study surveyed 384 agro-dealers. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression models to identify predictors of credit access and sales impact. <i>Results:</i> Major financial barriers identified were high interest rates (80.2%), collateral requirements (85.1%), and complex application processes (76.8%). These barriers led to inadequate stock (87.2%), lost sales (82.0%), and reduced product quality (50.8%). Logistic regression showed high interest rates significantly increased credit access (AOR = 6.68) and increased sales impact likelihood (AOR = 5.71). Collateral requirements also increased sales impact likelihood (AOR = 4.07). Thematic analysis highlighted inadequate government support, stringent lending criteria, and limited development program reach. <i>Conclusions:</i> The study highlights the need for targeted interventions, including simplifying application processes, developing tailored financial products, increasing government support, and enhancing development program reach. These measures are crucial for improving agro-dealers' financial stability and growth, thereby strengthening Zambia's agricultural sector and economy.

Utilizing Marble Waste for Soil Acidity Correction in Colombian Caribbean Agriculture: A Sustainability Assessment

Agricultural industrial waste has demonstrated potential as a soil acidity corrector and fertilizer, in addition to reducing environmental impacts caused by inadequate waste disposal. Ornamental rock waste is a sustainable alternative as it contains essential elements for plant growth. (1) Background: this study aims to evaluate using marble waste in SENA and the Gallo Crudo Quarry in Colombia as an acidity mitigator in soils cultivated with maize (Zea mays) in a greenhouse. (2) Method: four treatments were applied: T0: without marble dust—MD; three doses of MD (T1: 1.1 Mg of MD ha−1; T2: 2.2 Mg of MD ha−1; and T3: 3.3 Mg of MD ha−1). After 70 days, soil fertility analyses were carried out. (3) Results: The results show that the chemical properties of the soil improved with all treatments, mainly with T2, influencing the calcium (Ca), carbon (C), sulfur (S), and magnesium (Mg) contents. MD’s pH and Al + H values were higher than conventional treatments. The T2 treatment reduced soil acidity from 0.2 cmol + kg−1 to 0.0 cmol + kg−1 and increased pH to 7.91 compared to the control (5.4). The maize plants in the T2 treatment developed better, indicating that the dose of 2.2 Mg of MD ha−1 can replace commercial limestone. (4) Conclusions: This agroecological technique is an innovative alternative in Colombia, replicable in areas with ornamental rock reserves, benefiting the agricultural economy and contributing to target the Sustainable Development Goals, which promote sustainability, responsible management of natural resources, and a reduction in environmental impacts.

Peculiarities of the subjective composition of permanent land users

The article is devoted to the topical issues of legal regulation of relations regarding the acquisition of land plots of the respective designated purpose on the terms of permanent use. The author conducts a historical analysis of perpetual usufruct starting from 1918 when landowners transferred land to peasants without redemption. Considerable attention is paid to the characterization of the Land Code of 1990, with a list of individuals and legal entities to whom land plots were granted on the right of permanent use. The author analyzes in detail the case law on the transfer of the right of permanent use acquired in accordance with the established procedure before January 1, 2002 by an individual for the purpose of running a peasant (farm) to a farm with the status of a legal entity, as well as the transfer of such title to successors as a result of reorganization, regardless of the organizational and legal form and type of activity. The author identifies a list of clear steps for the possibility of re-registering the right of permanent use or lease from the founder (participant) of an individual to a farm as a legal entity. The author characterizes the types of activities which may be carried out by permanent land users on agricultural land plots. Based on the results of the analysis of the regulatory framework and case law, the author formulates a list of entities which may currently have the right to permanent use of land plots. Among them: 1) legal entities that may acquire land plots in accordance with Part 2 of Article 92 of the Land Code of Ukraine; 2) individuals who have land plots for personal (subsidiary) farming; 3) individuals who have land plots for peasant (farm) farming; 4) farms that have land plots for running a peasant (farm) economy; 5) legal entities listed in Article 7 of the Land Code of 1990, if they continue their activities, and in case of reorganization – their legal successors, regardless of the organizational and legal form and type of activity.