Government Policy Research Articles

The Impact of Policy Incentives on the Purchase of Electric Vehicles by Consumers in China’s First-Tier Cities: Moderate-Mediate Analysis

With the rapid development of China’s electric vehicle industry, the influence mechanism of government policies on consumers’ purchase intentions has become a research focus. This study integrates the technology acceptance model (TAM) and SOR theory to propose four key driving factors: policy incentive, perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and test drive experience. Through stratified random sampling of 400 valid questionnaires in Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou, four cities with a high penetration rate of electric vehicles, the structural equation model (SEM) was used for empirical analysis. The results show that policy incentives have a significant impact on purchase intentions and play a mediating role through perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use; driving experience moderates the effects of perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use on purchase intentions. Based on the research results, this paper proposes a three-stage policy optimization path: strengthening the accuracy of fiscal and tax incentives in the short term, improving the visual construction of the charging network in the medium term, and establishing a network of test drive experience centers in the long term. The research conclusions provide a theoretical basis for the government to formulate differentiated electric vehicle promotion strategies and propose a “policy-technology-service” three-dimensional implementation plan for enterprises to optimize product design and improve user experience, so as to help the sustainable development of China’s electric vehicle market.

Mapping the Threat of Misuse of Blockchain Domain Name System (BDNS) Technology in Online Gambling in Indonesia: Analysis Using a Scenario Matrix Approach

Web3 technology echoes the paradigm of a secure, transparent, and privacy-preserving decentralized internet. Unfortunately, this digital transformation has opened up new opportunities for cybercriminals, for example online gambling bookies can utilize the Blockchain Domain Name System (BDNS) running on Web3 as a way to avoid tracking and blocking. This analysis aims to map the potential threats from misuse of BDNS technology through a two-dimensional scenario matrix approach using two main types of variables: (1) Native Web3 integration into popular browsers, and (2) Level of BDNS adoption by online gambling sites. The four scenarios produced will describe various levels of risk that require different mitigation strategies, in certain combination conditions will create the highest threat conditions where the conventional domain name blocking system is no longer effective in blocking online gambling sites. The results of this study are expected to identify weak signals from the evolution of online gambling threats, as well as become a basis for government agencies or policy makers in preparing anticipatory steps in dealing with the dynamics of digital threats in the Web3 era.

Determinants of social enterprises performance in Malaysia: a scoping literature review

This scoping review aims to synthesise and map the determinants influencing social enterprise performance in Malaysia, focusing on government support, market access, stakeholder involvement, and financial literacy. Social enterprises, positioned at the nexus of public, private, and non-profit sectors, are pivotal in addressing societal and environmental challenges while fostering economic development. The review employed the Arksey and O’Malley framework, refined by Levac et al., to explore comprehensive literature across academic and gray literature sources, encompassing studies published between 2000 and 2023. The analysis identified that government support, through financial incentives, grants, and capacity-building initiatives, is critical for operational sustainability, although bureaucratic barriers and awareness gaps persist. Market access challenges, particularly in rural settings, highlight the need for digital infrastructure and strategic branding. Stakeholder involvement, including community engagement and corporate partnerships, emerged as a resource mobilisation and legitimacy cornerstone. Financial literacy influenced budgeting, funding access, and strategic decision-making, underscoring the need for targeted educational programs. The findings revealed significant research gaps, including limited studies on the interplay between determinants, regional variations, and the long-term impacts of government policies. The review concludes by emphasising the importance of integrated approaches and longitudinal studies to enhance understanding of these determinants. Insights from this study inform both academic discourse and policy interventions, offering actionable strategies to optimise the sustainability and scalability of social enterprises in Malaysia.

Effects of multiple annual biosolids applications on the soil concentrations of metals, organochlorine pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls in a field trial in Victoria, Australia.

Biosolids are organic solids derived from sewage treatment processes with one of the common reuse options for biosolids being application to agricultural land as a soil amendment for fertiliser value. However, biosolids often include relatively high concentrations of potential contaminants. While there have been many studies investigating the risks of contaminants in biosolids after one application to soil, there have been far fewer studies researching the risks from multiple biosolids applications on working farms. Thus, the aims of this study were to assess the potential for soil contamination after four annual applications of biosolids to a pasture used for grazing cattle and silage production in Victoria, Australia. The study was the first to investigate the effects of multiple biosolids additions on soil concentrations of organochloride pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls. The results demonstrated that Cu and Zn were the limiting contaminants measured, with soil concentrations above some Australian soil guidelines, but not Receiving Soil Contaminant Levels, after four biosolids additions. In addition, despite being required by government policy, all soil and biosolids concentrations of organochloride pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls were very low with almost all measurements below detection limits. As such, rather than concentrating on organochloride pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls, we suggest measurement and risk assessment efforts may be better directed towards emerging contaminants in biosolids, for example, per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, pharmaceuticals, chemicals in personal care products, and microplastics.

Growing Digital Trade and Sustainability: What Lies Ahead?

p class="MsoNormal"This article explores sustainability issues in the context of the growing digital trade globally. Increasing digital trade is leading to digital transformation of economies across the globe. Governments are emphasizing on the development and adoption of digital tools and technologies. Digital technologies are considered engines of growth that help in increasing productivity, reducing transaction costs, and achieving economies of scale through access to a larger population. However, increasing digital trade is also leading to enhanced concerns for environmental sustainability due to higher amounts of carbon emissions and enhanced demands for electricity in the use of new-age technologies, such as the blockchain. In addition to ‘environmental sustainability’, growing digital trade is also creating challenges for ‘economic sustainability’ and ‘social sustainability’, the other two dimensions of sustainability. Several countries are signing digital economy partnership agreements (DEPA) that have provisions to promote digital trade and look at the entire economy from the perspective of ‘digital trade’. However, sustainability issues arising out of rising digital trade remain primarily untouched in government policies and these new age trade and digital economy agreements. Without sustainabilityfocused policies, the environmental, economic, and social costs of digital trade could reduce the benefits of the digital revolution. Therefore, while it is important to promote digital trade, the sustainability aspects should not be ignored.o:p/o:p

A Study on the Current Status of the Real Estate Sector in Bihar

The real estate sector in Bihar has undergone significant transformation during the period 2020 to 2025, reflecting broader economic and urban development trends within the state. This paper critically explores the current landscape of the sector, emphasizing growth centers such as Patna and Gaya. Drawing on data from recent government reports, policy documents, and market studies, the research examines key trends, including the influence of infrastructure development, demographic changes, investment patterns, and regulatory frameworks. The residential market has expanded, propelled by state and central housing schemes like Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), yet remains challenged by affordability and limited access to formal housing finance. The commercial segment, though still emerging, is gradually gaining traction, especially in Patna’s retail and office markets. Meanwhile, industrial and logistics real estate has witnessed accelerated growth, supported by major infrastructure initiatives, including the Patna Metro, the Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor, and new warehousing hubs near Bihta and Hajipur. Government efforts such as the implementation of RERA and the promotion of smart city projects have contributed to a more structured and transparent market environment. Nevertheless, persistent obstacles such as inadequate infrastructure, land acquisition bottlenecks, limited private investment, and a predominantly rural economy continue to slow progress. Despite these challenges, emerging opportunities especially in affordable housing, logistics, and urban renewal offer a positive outlook. This study concludes that with continued policy support, improved governance, and strategic investments, Bihar’s real estate sector holds strong potential for sustainable and inclusive growth in the coming decade.

Historical shifts in mercury deposition in northeastern China: From vegetation to human activity.

Historical shifts in mercury deposition in northeastern China: From vegetation to human activity.

Data fitting and optimal control strategies for HBV acute patient cases in the United States.

Data fitting and optimal control strategies for HBV acute patient cases in the United States.

Mycotoxin management in Sub-Saharan Africa: A comprehensive systematic review of policies and strategies in Malawi.

Food safety challenges, such as mycotoxin contamination, pose severe threats to public health, agricultural productivity, and economic development across Sub-Saharan African countries and beyond. This study investigated whether government policies related to food safety adequately address these concerns, using Malawi as a case study. We systematically reviewed 29 government-authored policy documents related to food safety. These documents were categorized into six sectors: Agriculture, Environment, Nutrition, Health, Trade and Industry, and Education. Our analysis revealed critical gaps in addressing mycotoxin concerns in these policies, with only 4 of the 29 policy documents (14 %) addressing food safety and mycotoxin management. In contrast, 13 policy documents (45 %) did not address these issues at all, while 12 policy documents (41 %) focused solely on food safety management without addressing mycotoxin contamination. Notably, Malawi's long-term development blueprint, Malawi 2063 , does not include mycotoxin management, underscoring a critical policy gap and broader systemic challenges in integrating food safety and mycotoxin control into national frameworks. Furthermore, Malawi lacks a dedicated sector responsible for food safety and a comprehensive national food safety policy to coordinate efforts in mycotoxin control. While this study centers on Malawi, the findings resonate globally, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa and other countries with similar agricultural and economic contexts. Addressing these systemic policy gaps is vital for developing integrated food safety frameworks that combat mycotoxin contamination, strengthen sustainable food systems, enhance public health, and foster economic resilience. These findings also provide a replicable model for policy analysis, contributing to international discourse by emphasizing the importance of aligning food safety governance with global development priorities, such as the Sustainable Development Goals.

CONDITIONS AFFECTING IMPORTS OF MUNG BEANS IN INDONESIA

Mung beans are believed to be the key to Indonesia's food security in facing the food crisis in the future. This study aims to analyze the factors that influence the volume of mung beans imports in Indonesia. The factors studied include domestic production, import prices, exchange rates, domestic prices, and government policies. The data used are secondary data from 2007 to 2022, obtained from Statistics Indonesia (BPS), the Ministry of Agriculture, and UN Comtrade. Multiple linear regression was used to determine the effect of each independent variable on the volume of mung bean imports. Based on the EViews regression output, three variables were found to have a significant effect on the volume of mung bean imports in Indonesia: domestic production (negative effect), real domestic prices (positive effect), and import policy (significant effect). Meanwhile, real import prices and the exchange rate of the Rupiah against the US Dollar showed negative but statistically insignificant effects. These findings indicate that fluctuations in mung bean imports in Indonesia are more strongly influenced by domestic production levels, internal price dynamics, and government policies rather than external factors such as import prices and currency exchange rates.

Standardised Assessment in Irish Primary Schools: Teachers' Views on Purpose, Pressure and Practice

ABSTRACT This paper explores the perspectives of principals, teachers and key actors within the Irish primary school context regarding standardised assessment following a cultural flashpoint in the Irish education system, marked by the embedding of governmental policy regarding literacy and numeracy. A survey methodology was employed which incorporated the use of 103 qualitative questionnaires and 12 semi-structured interviews. A thematic data analysis framework was then applied to interrogate the data. This paper examines key themes identified relating to perceived pressure, test preparation practices and participants' reflections on the educational purpose and perceived value of standardised assessment. Participants’ perspectives are situated within the expansive discourse regarding standardised assessment internationally, as well as the limited corpus of Irish research in this area. The findings emphasise the need for system-level attention regarding the influences of standardised assessment and consideration of the paradoxical motivations that may now exist within Irish primary schools due to recent governmental policies linking test results and special education support allocation. In addition, the findings have informed the development of a self-reflective scale for teachers which could be used to support professional learning regarding standardised assessment practices.

Optimization of Packaged Palm Cooking Oil Supply Chain Network to Fulfill Domestic Mandatory Requirements, Export Demands, and Maximize Profit

This study addresses palm oil supply chain network design challenges in Central Kalimantan, Indonesia, focusing on balancing export demands with Domestic Market Obligation (DMO) and biodiesel-35 policy requirements. The research aims to determine optimal facility numbers, locations, and capacities that maximize profitability while meeting both export and domestic cooking oil demands. A Mixed Integer Linear Programming (MILP) model was developed to optimize this multi-level, multi-product, multi-capacity, multi-destination supply chain with transshipment distribution. The model incorporated DMO policy constraints connecting export quantities with domestic demand requirements, with robustness assessed through sensitivity analysis of demand variations, export price fluctuations, and government policy changes. The optimal network configuration requires five palm oil mills, two refinery and fractionation units, five distribution centers with packaging facilities, and two internal packaging plants, generating USD 66,423 thousand monthly profit. Sensitivity analysis revealed that facility decisions are primarily influenced by demand quantities, while price fluctuations mainly affect profitability without changing infrastructure decisions. This model provides strategic guidance for stakeholders to optimize packaged cooking oil supply chains under regulatory constraints. The research demonstrates that DMO policy creates new connections between export-bulk and domestic packaged cooking oil networks. Five strategically located distribution centers with packaging capabilities enable simultaneous fulfillment of export demands while prioritizing domestic requirements. The model's novelty lies in addressing DMO policy's constant ratio element linking export and domestic volumes, contributing to both economic and social welfare considerations. DOI : https://doi.org/10.52783/pst.1953

How the Adoption of Government Interventions has Affected Income Inequality and Poverty in Some African Countries

The majority of Sub-Saharan African (SSA) nations continue to have higher rates of poverty than other developing nations in comparable parts of the world. To reverse this situation, the World Bank established the seventeen Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which aim to reduce income inequality and end extreme poverty by 2030, while also increasing the shared prosperity of the lowest 40% of each nation's population. Hence, the governments of African countries have implemented several policies to achieve this goal. This paper examines how the implementation of these policies has impacted poverty and income inequality in six African countries: Nigeria, Cote d’Ivoire, South Africa, Mozambique, DR Congo, and Tanzania, comparable to Ghana. Machine Learning was applied to achieve this objective. The results showed that, while agriculture expenditure has a positive impact on income inequality in Nigeria, Mozambique, and DR Congo, as in Ghana, agriculture expenditure has a negative impact on income inequality in Cote d’Ivoire and Tanzania. Regarding poverty, agricultural expenditure has a positive relationship with poverty in Côte d’Ivoire, South Africa, Nigeria, Tanzania, and DR Congo, but a negative impact on poverty in Mozambique, as was the case in Ghana. Generally, there was a mixed relationship between government policies and both income inequality and poverty across the six countries, as was also the case in Ghana. In addition, the policies implemented have different impacts on poverty and income inequality in the various countries. This implies that policies that help reduce poverty are not necessarily the same as those that help reduce income inequality.

The Role of Institutions in the Economic Growth of OECD Countries

This paper analyses the role of institutional quality in determining the economic growth in the OECD countries from 1995 to 2021 concerning the institutional economics framework developed by North (1990) and further advanced by Rodrik (2000) and Acemoglu et al. (2005). Institutions are viewed as the formal and informal structures that regulate economic, political and social activities and are considered the key to influencing economic performance through the minimisation of transaction costs, encouragement of innovation and human capital development. The theoretical framework assumes that inclusive institutions foster sustained economic growth while extractive institutions stifle development by consolidating power and assets. This paper hypothesises that institutional quality positively influences economic growth in OECD countries. Using panel regression models and Employing the Fraser Institute’s Economic Freedom Index and the Heritage Foundation’s Index of Economic Freedom as measures of institutional quality, it examines how government size, property rights, regulation, and trade freedom affect growth. The findings reveal that institutional quality has a positive but varying impact on economic growth. In particular, small government, low taxes, and good monetary policy are positively related to higher growth rates. However, factors such as property rights and trade freedom have either weak or negative coefficients of correlation with growth. The results suggest that fiscal prudency and sound money supply policies are conducive to growth, but other institutional factors are not as straightforward in their influence on growth. This study is useful for policymakers who wish to improve economic growth through institutional change.

Integration of Traditional and Modern Farming Practices in India and its role towards the Sustainability: A Review

Abstract: India's agricultural landscape is a mosaic of traditional wisdom and modern innovations. India’s agricultural sector, deeply rooted in centuries-old traditions and knowledge systems, plays a vital role not only in feeding its vast population but also in shaping rural livelihoods and the national economy. As the country faces increasing pressure from climate change, environmental degradation, and a growing population, there is an urgent need to adopt and promote sustainable farming practices. This review paper examines the diverse farming practices prevalent in India and their implications for environmental, economic, and social sustainability. We analyze traditional and modern practices, highlighting their impacts on soil health, water resources, biodiversity, and climate resilience. The focus is on analyzing how these practices contribute to ecological sustainability, economic viability, and social inclusion. It alsodiscusses the opportunities and obstacles in adopting sustainable agricultural practices across India's varied agroclimatic zones, considering the role of government policies, technological advancements, and community participation. Furthermore, the paper emphasizes the importance of integrating traditional knowledge with scientific advancements to build a resilient agricultural system. The paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of farming in India and pathways towards a more sustainable agricultural future.

Forest Fire Disaster Management Actions: A Systematic Literature Review

Forest fires are events that can damage the environment with repeated occurrences due to changes in weather and climate. This incident must be found a solution to overcome it so as not to cause major losses to the community. This study was conducted to analyze mitigation measures in reducing the incidence of forest fires, variables that influence the occurrence of fires, and areas that are often the focus of several studies through literature reviews. This research approach uses a systematic literature review (SLR) with the Prisma method. Data sampling with Watase_Uake. Articles used with the Q1-Q4 index in the last 5 years, namely from 2019-2023. A total of 18 (eighteen) selected articles have gone through several specified processes. Generally, mitigation measures taken to overcome fires are by implementing government regulations through regulations, sanctions for violations, and approaches to the community. The variables that influence fires are climate variables, demographic changes, designing protocols to improve fire control, and alternative livelihoods that are socially just. The countries that are most often the objects of research are countries in the Asian region, especially Indonesia. This research has contributed to efforts to minimize forest fire incidents by looking at the variables that are factors that influence the role of government policy in dealing with them

Freedom of Speech and Social Interaction in the Post-Communist Balkans: A Call for Cultural Education / Sloboda govora i komunikacija u društvu u postkomunističkom Balkanu: Poziv za edukaciju

In the former Yugoslavia, the communist era was marked by a relatively mild form of socialism compared to other Eastern Bloc countries. While life was more liberal under Tito’s leadership, there were undeniable restrictions, particularly on freedom of speech. Media was partially controlled, and criticism of public figures, government policies, or political movements was limited. Open expression, though not completely suppressed, was carefully monitored, creating a social environment where people became accustomed to self-censorship.

Beyond the recipe: reshaping women’s social status through Meiji domestic cookbooks

ABSTRACT This article examines the role of female-authored cookbooks and cooking lessons in reshaping women’s social status and education during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries in Japan. Under the rationale that women needed to learn how to contribute to the development of a modernizing nation through their domestic roles as housewives, the Japanese government reformed the curriculum of women’s schools to make domesticity the core of female education. At the same time, female leaders in women’s education interpreted cooking education through a distinct perspective, developing new educational philosophies aimed at redefining women’s roles in society. These educational philosophies influenced cookbook authors in varying ways. While some authors aimed to enhance cooking knowledge to build on the goals of the national education system, other authors saw cooking education as a means to cultivate women’s intellectual capacity, thereby reshaping women’s social roles. Drawing on rarely explored domestic cookbooks and lessons in home economics textbooks, this article examines female-authored culinary writings to analyze how food and cooking intersect with notions of modernity and governmental policies to affect the history of women’s education and food culture during the most transformative era of modern Japanese history, the Meiji period (1868–1912).

A descriptive analysis of female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) in Gorontalo: cultural, health, and legal perspectives

Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (P2GP) remains a deeply ingrained practice in many parts of Indonesia, particularly in Gorontalo, where it is strongly tied to cultural and religious beliefs. The aim of this study is to explore the prevalence, cultural significance, health risks, and legal responses to P2GP in Gorontalo. This research utilizes a qualitative descriptive approach, combining literature review, document analysis, interviews with local communities, healthcare providers, and traditional practitioners, as well as policy analysis.The study reveals that P2GP in Gorontalo continues to be practiced despite the legal ban, with significant cultural and religious justifications for its continuation. The practice is perceived as essential for maintaining purity, moral integrity, and ensuring marriageability. However, the health risks associated with P2GP, including immediate complications such as infection and long-term issues like infertility and psychological trauma, remain significant. While medicalization has been proposed as a solution, it does not eliminate the inherent risks, and resistance to abandoning the practice remains prevalent, particularly in rural areas.The findings suggest that government policies aimed at banning P2GP face challenges due to deeply rooted cultural beliefs. The study emphasizes the need for culturally sensitive educational approaches and more comprehensive training for healthcare providers to address the health implications. The research contributes to the broader discourse on the intersection of tradition, health, and law and suggests areas for future research on culturally appropriate interventions and social change.

Prevalence of substance use and knowledge of its effects among secondary school students in Lagos, Nigeria

Background: World Health Organization defines substance use as harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive substances, including alcohol and illicit drugs. There is an increased rate of substance use among youths and adolescents. Substance use significantly increases the risk for mental disorders.Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of substance use and knowledge of its effects among secondary school students in Lagos, Nigeria.Setting: The study was conducted among Secondary schools in Lagos, Nigeria.Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional, descriptive study among 800 participants who were selected using a multi-stage sampling method. The instrument for data collection was the amended WHO students’ drug-use questionnaire. The data were analysed using Epi Info 7 software.Results: The lifetime prevalence of substance use was 13.6%, while current users’ prevalence was 6.9%. Apart from alcohol consumption, the substance most frequently used was tramadol (52.7%), followed by marijuana (36.4%). Almost all the participants (98.1%) were aware of substance use. Most students (88.7%) were able to identify the effects of substance use, including short-term complications (79.1%) and long-term complications (61.1%).Conclusion: The high prevalence of alcohol and tramadol use among the participants underscores the need for stricter government policies on the accessibility of these products to adolescents and the need for increased awareness of their effects.Contribution: The lower knowledge of long-term complications of substance use (61.1%) in comparison to short-term complications (79.1%) underscores the need for further research and increased advocacy on long-term complications of substance use among youths and adolescents.