The study investigates the determinants of export performance in Pakistan's textile industry by analysing: (1) the direct effects of organizational ambidexterity, production performance and competitive intensity on export performance and (2) the mediating role of export strategy in the relationships between competitive intensity and export performance, as well as between production performance and export performance. Pakistan’s textile industry has remained stagnant on exports in the last five years and has not recorded positive growth as regional competitors like China, Bangladesh, Vietnam, and India continue to sustain and thrive on their exports. This paradox in relation to Pakistan’s advantage in cotton production and labour costs, along with an established industrial base signals strategic flaws impeding firms in the translation of manufacturing capabilities into export performance in a competitive global textile market. The study uses survey data on 87 mid-level and senior managers of export-oriented Pakistani textile manufacturing companies, analysed using PLS-SEM. Confirmatory factor analysis and path analysis were used to test hypothesized relationships. Production performance was found to be the most consistent predictor of export performance, followed by organizational ambidexterity. The export results were negatively affected by high levels of competition. Export strategy served as a powerful mediator in the competitive intensity-export performance and production performance-export performance relationships. The study finds that the difficulties with exports are not in production, but in strategic adaptation to competition. Companies require both operational excellence and adaptable export strategies and policymakers should nurture strategic capabilities rather than simply production. Export strategy is the key link that couples what firms are capable of doing internally with their response to competition in the external environment.

Screening and bioreactor cultivation of wild-type lactic acid bacteria for high purity D-lactic acid production.

This study conducts a critical analysis of Court Decision No. 12/Pid.Sus-TPK/2024/PN.Jkt.Pst, which is deemed to create confusion regarding the role of mens rea (malicious intent) in criminal liability for corruption. Using a normative juridical method and a case study approach, this research examines the case of Karen Agustiawan, the former CEO of Pertamina, who was convicted in an LNG procurement case. The main findings indicate that the Defendant was proven to have no malicious intent to cause state financial loss and did not gain personal profit. Furthermore, the state losses that occurred were attributed more to external factors, such as force majeure and global market changes. The verdict is criticized for disregarding fundamental principles of criminal law, namely actus non facit reum nisi mens sit rea (an act does not make one guilty unless the intent is guilty) and geen straf zonder schuld (no punishment without fault). In conclusion, this research emphasizes that mens rea is a fundamental requirement, and therefore, the absence of malicious intent on the Defendant’s part should have been a central consideration in the judgment.

Purpose Socialisation plays a significant role in education, especially for international students, as it helps them develop soft skills that are increasingly valued by employers in the global job market. Since value creation relies on the joint efforts of both the university and the student, these peer interactions play a crucial role in enhancing perceived value. Guided by Weidman’s (1989) seminal framework, this study explores the factors that influence the student’s socialisation process and examines its implications for value co-creation, as conceptualised through Vargo and Lusch’s Service-Dominant Logic. Design/methodology/approach The post-pandemic (Covid-19) study is based on 33 in-depth interviews with international students in Australia. Findings By focussing on the joint creation of value between students and institutions, the study highlights that employability extends beyond the mere acquisition of skills; it involves creating value through meaningful interactions, such as normative perspectives and socialisation processes, which affect students through informal and formal exchanges. Such interactions not only contribute to students’ development but also play a crucial role in building their employability confidence. The findings also highlight how socialisation contributes to understanding different personality traits among international students as they adapt to new academic and cultural environments. Originality/value This study offers valuable insights into the co-creation of value in higher education, particularly as it relates to the socialisation experiences of international students. By integrating the concepts of socialisation and value co-creation, the research enriches existing knowledge on student engagement and development. Additionally, this study lays the groundwork for future research.

Hidden Hazard: The detrimental effect of personal care products on amphibian species.

Modelling the impact of vaccination on cholera transmission dynamics under stratified populations and seasonality.

ABSTRACT This study applies an evolutionary approach to examine how economic crises and other factors shape economic diversification in the Baltic States. Using a logit model, new specialization entries in export portfolios from 1995 to 2022 are analyzed. The results show that the probability of market entry in related products increases significantly during a downturn. The Baltic economies also diversify into more complex, less-related products, suggesting a break from path dependency. Greater capital intensity and public investment in research and development foster diversification, while global export market size constrains it, highlighting barriers to entering major export markets.

Bangladesh’s software industry has emerged as one of the fastest-growing contributors to the digital economy, supported by an increasingly tech-savvy youth population and global outsourcing opportunities. However, unlike its neighbors and competitors, Bangladesh lacks a dedicated software regulator and comprehensive regulatory framework. This vacuum has led to significant risks including revenue leakages, weak consumer protection, unmonitored exports, and vulnerability to cyber threats. The absence of a clear governance structure not only hinders investor confidence but also undermines the country’s long-term ambition to transform into a “Smart Bangladesh.” By comparing Bangladesh with India, Singapore, and the European Union, this paper demonstrates how the absence of regulation has already cost the nation billions in untapped revenues and global market share. It proposes the creation of a Bangladesh Software Regulatory Authority (BSRA), drafting of a Software Act, integration with international standards, implementation of revenue monitoring systems, and adoption of a regulatory sandbox for innovation. The study concludes that without urgent reforms, Bangladesh risks losing its competitive advantage in the global technology race.

Eggplant possesses high economic value with various nutritional contents such as minerals and vitamins that are benefical for human health. However, productivity decline due to environmental stress poses a challenge in global market demand fulfillment. The application of biostimulants represents one solution to enhance the growth and yield of eggplant (Solanum melongena L.). This research aimed to examine the effect and optimal concentration of biostimulant application on eggplant plants. The study was conducted in cultivation fields located in Nanggela Village, Kuningan Regency, West Java, from July to October 2025. This experiment used Randomized Block Design (RBD) with nine biostimulant concentration treatments and three replications, resulting in 27 experimental plots, each measuring 3,5 x 1,5 meters, consisting 14 plants and a 50 cm spacing between plots, 50 cm spacing between plants, and 60 cm spacing between rows. The vegetative phase observation parameters included root length, root volume, plant height, stem diameter, number of leaves, leaf area, leaf area index, plant dry weight, and relative growth rate, while the generative phase parameters included number of fruits, fruit diameter, fruit length, fruit weight, and yield weight per plant. The data obtained were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by the Scott-Knott cluster analyses to determind significant differences among treatments. The results showed that biostimulants had a significant effect on growth and development aspects. Specifically, biostimulant application significantly affected both vegetative and generative parameters. The best vegetative characteristics were obtained in K1 (1,0 ml/l), K2 (1,5 ml/l), and K3 (2,0 ml/l) treatments, while the optimal generative characteristics were produced in K1 (1,0 ml/l), K2 (1,5 ml/l), K4 (2,5 ml/l), and K7 (4,0 ml/l) treatments.

This study examines recent shifts in U.S. immigration policy, with particular attention to regulations governing the F-1 visa, and considers their implications for global STEM education and labor market dynamics. Growing uncertainty surrounding post-graduation employment and residency opportunities in the United States has led many international students to redirect their educational trajectories toward countries offering more predictable post-study pathways, including Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Australia. Such patterns signal not only changes in student mobility but also broader transformations in the distribution of scientific talent, the configuration of research networks, and the capacity for innovation across national contexts.

Brazil, the world’s largest coffee producer and exporter, accounted for one-third of global coffee production in 2022, with a small portion being specialty coffee. This study aims to analyze the production areas, certifications adopted, cultivars used, processing methods, and the production chain of specialty coffee in Brazil, highlighting the challenges and opportunities. Data were collected from 175 farms associated with the Brazilian Specialty Coffee Association (BSCA), and analyzed. The state of Minas Gerais leads in specialty coffee production, supported by a well-structured supply chain. Most Brazilian specialty coffee producers have adopted the semidry processing method, either using this method alone or in combination with other methods. A high frequency of Arabica coffee cultivars with Coffea canephora introgression (e.g., derivatives of Híbrido de Timor and Icatu) was observed on farms, indicating that they have genetic potential for producing specialty coffees. The production of specialty coffees is still limited to a few producers due to the higher costs related to investments in equipment, certification, and traceability. Certifications play a crucial role in ensuring quality and sustainability, addressing environmental, social, and management aspects. These factors are essential for differentiating Brazilian specialty coffees in the global market, increasing their value and its selling price.

An unexpected surge in halal food sales in China has been explored in this study, focusing on the periods before and after Ramadan. Despite China being a predominantly non-Muslim country, the rising demand for halal food indicates a shift in consumer preferences towards products associated with ethical and high-quality standards. This study aims to understand this phenomenon by analysing keyword trends, product attributes, and consumer sentiments through a data-driven approach. Key findings show that halal food sales peak during festive periods like Ramadan and Eid-ul-Fitr, driven by increased awareness of halal certifications and changing consumer behaviours. Results from keyword and sentiment analyses indicate that Chinese consumers associate halal certification with high-quality, clean, and ethical food, which drives trust and sales. An 8P-Marketing Strategy has been proposed, combined with digital, cultural, and religious aspects to position Thai halal products effectively. By using Natural Language Processing (NLP) tools like RoBERTa, consumer reviews, identifying preferences and sales trends have been analysed. The data revealed increased sales of products like processed foods and gifts during festive periods, confirming seasonality-driven demand. A focus on the Pareto Principle indicated that a small range of products significantly drove sales, aligned with targeted marketing efforts. Integrating digital power and halal certification into the marketing strategy emerged as a critical success factor for market penetration in China. These findings offer valuable insights for marketers and policymakers aiming to navigate the evolving global halal food market.

Subject. This article discusses the issues of strengthening Russia's economic security, ensuring food availability, and providing State support for agriculture. Objectives. The article aims to assess measures to support Russia's agro-industrial complex under challenging political conditions. Methods. For the study, I used content and statistical analyses. Results. The article finds that the measures adopted by the Russian leadership to develop the agro-industrial complex helped increase agricultural production volumes significantly. Through gaining a high level of self-sufficiency for key food products, Russia has become one of the main food exporters. Conclusions. A comprehensive set of measures is needed to strengthen Russia's position as a key food supplier to the global market.

The article presents a sociological analysis of consumer behavior in the beauty services market (hairdressing saloon, nail service studios, spa centers, and beauty parlours). The relevance of the topic is substantiated in the context of industry growth (global market $247 billion in 2023, forecast to $400 billion by 2030). It examines motives for using beauty services, selection factors, customer loyalty, and the influence of social norms. A comparative analysis encompasses four regions (USA, Europe, Russia, and Ukraine) and is based on theo-retical approaches including rational-utilitarian, demonstrative, cultural-status, postmodernist, gender, and ritual interpretations of consumption. The empirical study is grounded in an online survey conducted from March to May 2023, involving 2,000 respondents (500 from each region). Four motivational consumer groups are identi-fied: rational (30%), emotional (25%), status-oriented (10–15%), and ritualistic (25%). Conclusion presents find-ings regarding the role of the beauty sector in consumer society and offers recommendations for salons, mar-keters, and regulators.

Purpose This paper aims to synthesise existing knowledge on global marketing strategies used by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to enhance their international performance. The study addresses the fragmented nature of existing literature and seeks to propose an integrative conceptual framework that informs both academic and managerial audiences. Design/methodology/approach A systematic literature review (SLR) methodology was employed, reviewing 42 peer-reviewed articles published in high-impact journals. The review followed a structured protocol using thematic analysis to extract and classify key insights. Findings The analysis revealed four dominant strategic orientations adopted by SMEs in international markets: (1) digital marketing and social media strategies, (2) market niche exploration, (3) strategic adaptation and diversification and (4) international networking strategies. The review also identifies key mediating and moderating variables influencing the success of these strategies, including innovation capability, market knowledge, relational capital and institutional context. Originality/value This paper contributes to international marketing literature by offering a comprehensive and integrative conceptual framework on global marketing strategies for SMEs. It also outlines a future research agenda and provides actionable insights for SME managers aiming to navigate global markets effectively.

Microbial enzymes have revolutionized food processing by offering efficient, sustainable, and scalable biocatalytic solutions for enhancing product quality, texture, flavor, and shelf life. This review explores the shift from traditional animal and plant-derived enzymes to microbial sources, driven by advancements in industrial biotechnology, fermentation technologies, and genetic engineering. Key enzyme classes, including proteases, glycosyl hydrolases, lipases, and extremozymes, are discussed in the context of their applications in dairy, baking, starch conversion, and beverage industries. The global market for food enzymes is projected to grow from USD 4.6 billion in 2024 to USD 6.7 billion by 2030, fueled by consumer demand for clean-label products and natural processing aids. Challenges in production methods (submerged vs. solid-state fermentation), enzyme stabilization through immobilization and directed evolution, and regulatory frameworks (FDA GRAS vs. EU EFSA) are analyzed. Emphasis is placed on sustainability, with enzymes enabling valorization of agri-food byproducts and green extraction technologies. Future prospects highlight the integration of AI-driven engineering and extremozyme discovery to address emerging industrial needs, positioning microbial enzymes as pivotal for a circular economy in food systems.

Type of the article: Theoretical ArticleAbstractThe rapid pace of digitalization is radically transforming the global economy, necessitating a rethinking of traditional competitive strategies. Accordingly, the purpose of this study is to advance the classical principles of Porter’s Five Forces model for assessing the competitive environment of the global digital economy. The paper proposes a refined interpretation of the competitive forces: threat of new entrants, bargaining power of suppliers, bargaining power of buyers, threat of substitutes and innovations, and the intensity of competitiveness within the global digital market. An expert-based methodology, supported by our evaluation framework, was applied to explore and characterize these competitive forces, comprising 25 indicators of competitive intensity and complemented by a comprehensive SWOT analysis.The empirical foundation for the qualitative and quantitative assessment was drawn from international rankings and indices published by leading organizations and research institutions between 2020 and 2022. The qualitative and quantitative assessment findings indicate that the global digital economy exhibits high dynamism and intense competition, and market structure transformation. The SWOT analysis underscores substantial growth potential driven by demand, scalability, and innovation, while highlighting critical challenges related to cybersecurity, regulatory gaps, market concentration, and equitable access to digital resources. Integrating the evaluation of competitive forces with SWOT insights allows for systematic identification of strategic development pathways, supporting evidence-based managerial and policy decisions at both national and international levels. The study emphasizes the need for empirical validation and further research on the evolving dynamics of competitiveness in the global digital era.AcknowledgmentThis paper has been/was/is funded by the Science Committee of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan (AP23485949) “Economic thinking, population’s behavior in the context of doctrine’s implementation to the new economic Kazakhstan’s policy: factors, prerequisites and mechanism.”

With the global popularization of internet technology and the widespread use of mobile devices, commercial activities are rapidly shifting online, and the global e-commerce market continues to maintain high-speed growth. Cross-Border E-commerce (CBEC), as a new trade model, integrates new technologies and business models, becoming a crucial component of international trade. China, as one of the world's largest e-commerce markets, has seen particularly rapid development in its CBEC sector, which has become an important means of stimulating economic growth and strengthening international cooperation. This paper examines the development history and market status of China's CBEC through literature review and case analysis. It deeply analyzes the prominent issues in tax and legal systems, information infrastructure, credit and payment security, logistics, and talent cultivation. Targeted countermeasures are proposed, including improving tax and legal frameworks, strengthening information infrastructure, perfecting credit and payment security systems, optimizing logistics, and increasing talent development efforts, to promote the healthy and sustainable development of China's CBEC.

Transitioning to renewable energy is thus a very important component of global efforts toward combating climate change, especially in emerging economies where energy demand is fast outpacing supply. Carbon markets have emerged as a vital financial mechanism for supporting renewable energy projects by enabling the trade of carbon credits. The following abstract discusses how carbon markets affect multi-dimensionally the financial flows of renewable energy in developing nations: attracting investment, reducing capital costs, driving technology innovation, and delivering decentralized energy. Through case studies from Kenya, India, and Brazil, the article illustrates how carbon markets have indeed served to mobilize such large-scale renewable projects as wind farms and solar installations that improve the lot of rural and underserved communities. Despite the promise of carbon markets, it still faces regulatory gaps, market volatility, high transaction costs, and limited participation from local stakeholders. This may spell out actionable solutions, such as the development of regional carbon trading systems, enhancement of voluntary carbon markets, blended finance models, and the integration of emerging economies into global carbon market initiatives within frameworks like those under the Paris Agreement. Carbon markets could have a real catalyzing role in the transition toward renewable energy, with accelerated rates of greenhouse gas emission reduction and sustainable development in emerging economies, if they are able to successfully address these tacked barriers.

Currently, the digital transformation of the Russian agricultural sector occupies a key place in the strategy of innovation-oriented economic growth. Precision farming, as a key form of implementing the digital trend in smart agriculture production, has already become widespread in countries with significant agricultural and technological potential. The forecast for the global precision farming market is projected to reach $34 billion by 2032, with an average annual growth rate of 13.3%. For Russia, the growth potential inherent in the digital transformation of technological and management processes is particularly important in terms of ensuring food security and achieving technological sovereignty. Currently, only 10% of domestic agricultural organizations are systematically implementing digital solutions. The digital transition of agricultural holdings reaches 70-90%, while small and medium-sized enterprises and farms often lack financial, human and other resources to achieve this. In the context of heterogeneity of the level of digital transformation across regions and farm categories, and the fragmented use of precision farming technologies, the role of regional agricultural management systems is significantly increasing. The project implementation algorithm for developing a digital precision farming platform in the Udmurt Republic presented in the study includes several stages: initiation, preparation, design, implementation and monitoring. The platformization of precision farming is primarily aimed at improving the efficiency of agricultural production management in the region. Through the prism of digital solutions, in fact, not only a digital but also an economic paradigm will be implemented, as detailed process detailing, accurate accounting and analysis of data contribute to maximizing economic impact. The presented project implementation algorithm can be used as a basic methodological tool in developing a roadmap for the digital transformation of the regional agricultural sector.