International Transport Systems Research Articles

Fuel and energy complex: competitiveness and sustainable development

The problem of the availability and consumption of hydrocarbons are critical to any economy. As of 2014, the scale of production and consumption of energy resources there are three major energy powers – China, the U.S. and Russia, and the United Europe, matching its energy policy within the European Union. Global economic competition requires fuel and energy complex (FEC) of Russia to increase existing and potential competitive advantages of the industry through resource and innovative development based on the use of the resource and intellectual potential of the country. The prospect of further development of the sector depends on the extent to which advanced technologies will be implemented by public and private oil and gas companies, how, where and when will be developed, acquired and used advanced equipment. The need for this approach is due to the challenges facing the industry today, because of easily extractable oil is over, so the Russian energy sector is forced to move gradually to the production of hydrocarbons in much more difficult conditions. It inaccessible hydrocarbons in the Arctic, Western Siberia, etc., it is inevitable the emergence of new environmental problems and risks. In the current environment, the strategic interests of Russia should be associated with the need for a common energy infrastructure in the border regions of Europe and Asia, international development energy and transport systems and to ensure non-discriminatory transit of energy. For Russia as a WTO member, become the most important task to improve competitiveness, to further strengthen cooperation in the field of international trade in products of the fuel and energy complex, a significant increase of economic efficiency of government, elements of the national economy at all levels, particularly related to the activities of the energy industry, with focus on ensuring economic security of the country and the achievement of national interests.

Epidemiology of Blastomycosis and Paracoccdioidomycosis

In recent years, an increase of tourist flow, strengthening of social and economic connections between the countries take place. The processes of the world economy globalization, development of international transport systems, and migration of population form preconditions for the spread of new infectious diseases in the territory of Russia and CIS countries. Imported cases of blastomycosis and paracoccidioidomycosis are already registered in many countries of Europe and Asia among persons who returned from endemic countries. Thus, it is likely to find infected persons and patients in Russia. The purpose of our review is to provide data indicating the need for improvement of methods for epidemiological control of blastomycosis and paracoccidioidomycosis. Diagnostic studies should be carried out by competent personnel in specialized laboratories that meet the necessary safety requirements. Thus, awareness about these diseases of as many experts as possible, guarantees the successful implementation of strategies for diagnostics and treatment.

El transporte internacional como factor de competitividad en el comercio exterior

Currently most of international shipments need to use more than one type of transportation from its point of origin to final destination. Each one of the types of global transport has played an essential role in facilitating geographic diversification. In this paper we evaluate, through Principal Component Analysis methodology, the international transport competitiveness considering the most important variables that affect this sector and the economic performance of these variables on transportation, analyzing the structure of the international transport system of twenty-nine countries, including seven Latin American countries. The results shown in the competitiveness index of international transportation indicate that the most competitive countries in this field are: USA, Hong Kong, Singapore, China, Sweden, Spain, Japan, Belgium, Denmark and Canada. Highlighting that, the countries of Latin America with the highest scores in this category are Brazil, followed by Panama, Chile and Costa Rica.

English

This article studies the problems and obstacles impeding the development of tourism industry in Iran, focusing on marketing and promotion. For this purpose, it initially deals with the literature of tourism and marketing and then the importance of the research is expressed. After collecting and analyzing data, the following items were identified as main obstacles to the development of tourism industry in Iran: lack of promotion in Iran’s attractions in target markets; inefficiency of national and international transportation facilities and systems; low quality of services such as hospitality and entertainment facilities; International negative publicity against Iran and insufficient training of people who are involved in the country’s tourism industry.   Key words: Tourism industry, obstacles, marketing, publicity, international tourists.

Future Strategic Directions for TSR and TCR from the Perspective of the Northeast Asian Logistics Network

As the global economy continues to boom, there remains a significant need for more efficient transportation and effective management in corporate logistics. In this regard, railways have been considered one of the most efficient modes for long distance transportation. In Asia, there are several extensive and direct railroads such as the TSR (Trans-Siberian-Railroad), the TCR (Trans-Chinese-Railroad) and the TMR (Trans-Mongolian-Railroad) which could connect Asia to Europe. If these railroad networks such as the TKR (Trans-Korean-Railroad) were fully operational, it is expected that they would replace a major portion of the current global trade transportation with is sent through other shipping methods. Therefore, the development of railroad networks is one of the most important steps toward an integrated international transportation system. However, in reality, it is difficult to achieve this vision because of the political and economic problems surrounding multiple countries that this network must cut across. Moreover, it is difficult to ensure the railways’ economic competitiveness when it is compared with other logistics options. In this study, we aim to discover the status quo about railway networks by focusing on the TCR and TSR. Through in-depth interviews and surveys with actual users of these networks, current issues and problems are analysed in order to make suggestions for improvements. This research also provides meaningful insights which the TKR-TSR and TKR-TCR railway networks should consider if they want to continue to be successful in the future.

Future Strategic Directions for TSR and TCR from the Perspective of the Northeast Asian Logistics Network

As the global economy continues to boom, there remains a significant need for more efficient transportation and effective management in corporate logistics. In this regard, railways have been considered one of the most efficient modes for long distance transportation. In Asia, there are several extensive and direct railroads such as the TSR (Trans-Siberian-Railroad), the TCR (Trans-Chinese-Railroad) and the TMR (Trans-Mongolian-Railroad) which could connect Asia to Europe. If these railroad networks such as the TKR (Trans-Korean-Railroad) were fully operational, it is expected that they would replace a major portion of the current global trade transportation with is sent through other shipping methods. Therefore, the development of railroad networks is one of the most important steps toward an integrated international transportation system. However, in reality, it is difficult to achieve this vision because of the political and economic problems surrounding multiple countries that this network must cut across. Moreover, it is difficult to ensure the railways’ economic competitiveness when it is compared with other logistics options. In this study, we aim to discover the status quo about railway networks by focusing on the TCR and TSR. Through in-depth interviews and surveys with actual users of these networks, current issues and problems are analysed in order to make suggestions for improvements. This research also provides meaningful insights which the TKR-TSR and TKR-TCR railway networks should consider if they want to continue to be successful in the future.

The transnational territorial transport system of the Baltic Region

In this paper we focus on the structure and territorial borders of the Baltic Sea region, and examine the key structural elements of the transnational territorial transport system. In this respect, we clarify some terms used in transport geography. For the first time the transport system gets territorially localized, which allows for a broad range of new studies of transnational transportation in the Baltic Sea area. We also identify the main principles of development and operation of international territorial transport systems and present them taking the Baltic Sea region as an example. Our findings, we hope, will have a great practical application for researchers of transport geography, especially those studying international logistics.

Транснациональная территориальная транспортная система Балтийского региона

The object of research carried out in the article is transnational territorial transport system identified within the limits of the Baltic Region. The objective of this work is to outline the structures and territorial borders, identify the system building elements and specific features of the functioning of this system. The work has considerable theoretical significance, since it specifies the conceptual framework of geography of transport. The practical significance of this research consists in the conducted territorial localisation of the system, which makes it possible to carry out a broad spectrum of studies into the Baltic transborder territorial transport system. The major value of this work relates to the definition of the basic principles of formation and functioning of international territorial transport systems described with the help of a case study of the Baltic Region. This works is of great practical value for researchers in the field of geography of transport and especially those in the sphere of international organisation of transportation process.

A Survey of China’s Logistics Industry and the Impacts of Transport Delays on Importers and Exporters

In the last decades, China’s booming economy has greatly benefited from globalization and trade liberalization. China has found a niche as the world’s manufacturing centre and it is playing a crucial role in a growing number of global supply chains. This research focuses on the performance of international and domestic transport and logistics systems as perceived by Chinese importers and exporters. A broad literature review of Chinese meteoric logistics industry development is provided. Results and analysis of in‐depth interviews with Chinese importers and exporters are presented. These interviews provide significant information regarding international freight transport chains, the impact of delays on supply chain operations and the subsequent costs, companies’ delay and disruption planning, and managers’ perspectives on future transport and logistics developments.

Transport aspects of international collaboration in Central East European countries

The article is devoted to the development of economic and organizational aspects of international transportation system, and international transport corridors particularly, which is the very important constituent of successful international economic relations between countries and assists activation of international ties between West&East Europe and Asia.

ANALYSIS OF LITHUANIAN TRANSPORT SECTOR POSSIBILITIES IN THE CONTEXT OF EUROPEAN‐ASIAN TRADE RELATIONS

The fundamental importance of an integrated international multimodal transport system has been clearly recognised. The identification and development of well functioning transport relations on the basis of existing transport corridors and networks requires properly defined, formalised, and coordinated joint actions among the relevant countries, international institutions and organisations. The geographical position of Lithuania has determined that the country is crossed by the two European transport corridors approved at the Conferences of the European Transport Ministers in Crete and Helsinki, creating ability for Lithuania in trade between EU and Asia. Paper presents an overview of recent changes in world economy and international trade emphasizing the growing importance of European ‐ Asian relations. Then analysis of existing transport links assuring possible ways for freight movements between these two regions are examined and method for the comparison of transportation alternatives based on corridor utility is presented. Finally, some key development trends towards the strengthening of Lithuanian transport system role in the context of European‐Asian trade relations are discussed.

Politics, economics affecting international transportation systems for gas

Natural GasVolume 15, Issue 7 p. 7-11 Article Politics, economics affecting international transportation systems for gas James T. Jensen, James T. Jensen James T. Jensen is president of Jensen Associates, Inc., of Wellesley, Massachusetts.Search for more papers by this author James T. Jensen, James T. Jensen James T. Jensen is president of Jensen Associates, Inc., of Wellesley, Massachusetts.Search for more papers by this author First published: 09 January 2007 https://doi.org/10.1002/gas.3410150703 AboutPDF ToolsRequest permissionExport citationAdd to favoritesTrack citation ShareShare Give accessShare full text accessShare full-text accessPlease review our Terms and Conditions of Use and check box below to share full-text version of article.I have read and accept the Wiley Online Library Terms and Conditions of UseShareable LinkUse the link below to share a full-text version of this article with your friends and colleagues. Learn more.Copy URL Share a linkShare onFacebookTwitterLinked InRedditWechat Volume15, Issue7February 1999Pages 7-11 RelatedInformation

Status of the U.S.–Mexico Commercial Border Crossing Process

The commercial border crossing process is an important element of the international transportation and supply-chain systems that influence greatly the national and international economies. Numerous research and analyses have identified issues and problems pertaining to the U.S.–Mexico commercial border crossing. The objective of this paper is to identify issues and problems that relate to the commercial border crossing process along the U.S.–Mexico border and to analyze, classify, and note the status of each issue. A brief description of the northbound commercial border crossing, the recently implemented security programs at the border, and the status of opening the border to Mexican trucks provide a background that facilitates the understanding of current conditions at commercial ports of entry. From the vast list of information on commercial border crossings, this paper presents a selection of reports and classifies issues and notes the status or change in the situation of each issue. Even though progress has been made in the past decade to improve the commercial border crossing process, information and data, interagency coordination, and binational cooperation are issues that still require attention and solution.

Status of the U.S.-Mexico Commercial Border Crossing Process: Analysis of Recent Studies and Research

The commercial border crossing process is an important element of the international transportation and supply-chain systems that influence greatly the national and international economies. Numerous research and analyses have identified issues and problems pertaining to the U.S.-Mexico commercial border crossing. The objective of this paper is to identify issues and problems that relate to the commercial border crossing process along the U.S.-Mexico border and to analyze, classify, and note the status of each issue. A brief description of the northbound commercial border crossing, the recently implemented security programs at the border, and the status of opening the border to Mexican trucks provide a background that facilitates the understanding of current conditions at commercial ports of entry. From the vast list of information on commercial border crossings, this paper presents a selection of reports and classifies issues and notes the status or change in the situation of each issue. Even though progre...

CAMTS and JCAHO

The Joint Commission International (JCR), a subsidiary of The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO), recently announced an international accreditation for medical transport organizations. This sounds like an accreditation for international air transport systems, and of course, the board of directors for the Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems (CAMTS) was curious why JCAHO would develop an accreditation that seems to be outside their area of expertise.

Road Transportation and Trade Facilitation Strategy for Central Asia

Changes in trade patterns and consequent demand for transportation are continuing to change in the Central Asian Republics (CAR). Since independence, these nations have formulated and implemented basic strategies to improve transportation and meet changing demand characteristics. International financial institutions have supported these efforts through various lending and nonlending programs. However, the next level of changes in policies, legislation, and management practices to achieve greater efficiency are costlier and will take more time to institute. These changes would have to be backed by a coherent development program with a definite agenda and commitment to create a seamless, international transportation system. The challenges and a systematic approach to developing transport strategies for the CARs are discussed. An overview is provided of the existing demand, emerging trade patterns, and current supply that are the basis for a road transportation strategy to foster travel and trade, with a specific reference to Kazakhstan. The ideal composition of a strategy is discussed along with the issues, constraints, and implementation timing.

Is a Leader's Character Culture-Bound or Culture-Free? An Empirical Comparison of the Character Traits of American and Taiwanese CEOs

Executive Summary Most experts agree that our character is influenced by our distinctive national culture, but world is becoming more boundaryless as international trade, transportation and communication systems become more efficient. As a result, it is unclear whether global marketplace has begun to homogenize character traits of business leaders. This research hypothesizes that character traits of business leaders will be one of last aspects to be homogenized in our global marketplace. To explore this hypothesis, we compare and contrast three dimensions of leadership character (i.e., personality, values, and spirituality) for American and Taiwanese CEOs in small- and medium-sized firms. In general, we found robust differences between these two sets of CEOs offering support for culture-bound nature of leadership character. To our knowledge, this is first systematic examination of inner character of CEOs in a cross-cultural study. ********** Strategic leadership effectiveness is increasingly seen as a function of competence and character of those in executive positions (Bennis, 1998). While there is extensive research on skills and competencies required of effective leaders, there is relatively little scholarly exploration of leaders' inner character (Renshon, 1998) and only anecdotal evidence from a cross-cultural perspective (Usinier, 1998). Despite fact that leadership always comes down to a question of character (Bennis, 1998), there is remarkably little systematic research on this topic. Character is defined as the complex of mental and ethical traits marking and often individualizing a person. (1) Given this general definition, leadership character can be conceptualized as highly individualized inner landscape which guides a leader's perceptions and behaviors. In this paper, we operationalize leadership character along three dimensions -- personality, values, and spirituality (Judge, 1999). Personality may be thought of as inner social system that determines how we relate to ourself and to others (Jung, 1923). Values represent inner belief system about desirable end states or modes of behavior (Rokeach, 1975). Spirituality is inner meaning system that helps us and others to makes sense of life (Conger, 1994). Together, these three character traits can and do interact to influence perceptions and behaviors of leader. The character of a leader is important and relevant because of its strong link with leader's credibility; and its impact on organizational trust, organizational culture, and organizational longevity. Leadership character generates trustworthiness within an organization, which is theorized to provide a valuable and rare resource that is not easily imitated by competitors. By exploring essence of leadership (i.e., leader's character), we may begin to understand why research and theories on leadership behavior is so equivocal, especially in cross-cultural settings (e.g., Ricks, Toyne & Martinez, 1990). Is Leadership Character Culture-Bound or Culture-Free? Numerous studies have provided evidence for notion of leadership being a culture-bound phenomena (e.g., Hofstede, 1999; Usinier, 1998). Some theorists argue that study of international management and leadership should be rooted in cultural context of individual executives being studied. For example, Inkeles and Levinson (1969) developed concept of modal personality within cultures which would indicate that national character is more influential than occupational character or level of industrial development, in explaining a leader's perceptions and behavior. Since national cultures are strikingly different and change very slowly (Hofstede, 1999; Trompenaars & Hampden-Turner, 1998), this suggests that leadership character may be culture-bound. Griffeth, Hom, DeNisi and Kirchner (1980) found that 52 percent of variance in manager's behavior could be attributed by their nationality within a single multinational firm. …

Growth of exports from developing countries: implications for freight trends and ecological impact

Representatives of world governments and the policy research community often promote expansion of exports from developing countries as a means of growing national economies of these countries and raising living standards. This type of export growth over the long term will have important implications for the international freight transportation system and for its overall level of ecological impact; however, up to the present there is little research on this issue. This paper gives a preliminary analysis of the possibility for future growth over the next several decades, in two parts. First, an estimate of the range of potential growth in total export tonne-km and associated energy use is given. Second, production and export of apparel from developing countries is modeled to illustrate the effect of growth in international freight from the perspective of product life-cycle analysis. At the upper end of the estimated growth range, substantial increases in energy use and carbon emissions will merit specific policies to counteract the full participation of industrializing countries in the world trading system, and these are discussed. The paper also identifies areas where data gathering should be improved.

RESTRUCTURING MARKETS, REORGANIZING NATURE: AN EXAMINATION OF JAPANESE STRATEGIES FOR ACCESS TO RAW MATERIALS

Theorists of hegemony combine a concern with the causes of war and peace with questions of dominant trade regimes. While this combination addresses issues of central importance for studies of international relations, it may somewhat confound the role of hegemony studies within a world systems perspective. The power of the world systems perspective lies in the consideration of entire worlds, not simply as the appropriate unit of analysis, but as integrated units of production and exchange. Hierarchy within this system reflects not simply politically enforced relations of unequal exchange, but the subordination of production in different parts of the world to regimes constructed and manipulated by core powers to their own economic and political advantage. The processes that create the power of the core and the processes by which the core subordinates the periphery constitute the critical questions within this perspective. Part, but only part, of the answer lies in the superior productive capacity and efficiency of the core, and resulting ability to dominate trade. Another part, and we believe this is primary, lies in the ways that, in order to become so productive and so efficient, economies rising to core status must organize other economies and international transport systems to assure the increasing, secure, cheap supplies of the raw materials that support productive efficiency and economic growth.

Japan's Role in Southeast Asian Security: "Plus ca Change ..."

HE SOUTHEAST ASIAN SECURITY environment is in a transitional period. 1 Recent regional and global developments notably east-west detente, the improvement of Sino-Soviet relations, and Vietnam's withdrawal from Cambodia, incomplete though it may be have reduced tension in the Southeast Asian regional order. Despite the current easing of tensions, there is no guarantee that the future of Southeast Asia will be either more stable or more peaceful. Moreover, while the economic importance of security has increasingly gained in significance, it is premature to think that military factors are no longer present in international relations in Southeast Asia or elsewhere. The war in Cambodia is not yet over and elsewhere the contest for position, power and influence continues, although not always in an openly antagonistic manner. Japan has vital interests in the stability and security of Southeast Asia. Southeast Asia is a major source of essential raw materials forJapan, a sizable market forJapanese manufactured goods, and the site of substantial Japanese investment. In addition, the waterways of Southeast Asia are increasingly vital forJapan's international transport system. About 60 percent ofJapan's oil imports and 40 percent of its foreign trade are transported via the Straits of Malacca, and the Lombok Straits. Not surprisinglyJapanese leaders take considerable interest, from both an economic and geopolitical point of view, in maintaining stability and security in Southeast Asia. Since World War II, Japan has played a predominantly economic role in this region, avoiding political and military entanglements. Japan's present and future role is less clear: what kind of role isJapan likely to play in the shifting security environment of Southeast Asia in order to meet its economic needs and goals? With the recent waning Soviet posture and with the U.S. seeking to reduce its presence in this region,