Economic of Agriculture

EXPLORING THE IMPACT OF CONSUMERS' TRUST IN FOOD AUTHENTICITY ON THEIR PURCHASE INTENTIONS: A CASE OF ‘SEN HUE’ - A LOCAL LOTUS-GRAIN PRODUCT IN CENTRAL VIETNAM

2025-10-03T16:37:33+02:00

There has been a significant increase in the global focus on food authenticity, leading people to closely examine the sources and quality of their food. The intricacy of culinary authenticity is shown in a regional lotus-grain product called ‘Sen Hue’, which suggests that they are from Hue, but in reality, they are obtained from other areas. Applying the Heckit model in the two-step approach for a sample of 426 local consumers, the study explored the drivers of the intention to purchase lotus-grain products. Findings from this study indicate that customers who perceive ‘Sen Hue’ lotus-grains as genuine and reliable have a stronger inclination to make a purchase, highlighting the importance of authenticity in the food industry. Stringent regulatory frameworks and labeling regulations are essential for preserving customer confidence. Additionally, this study highlights the need for a multi-pronged approach to understanding consumer behavior in this market by addressing safety, authenticity, and color specificity concerns.

THE ANALYSIS OF THE NOMINAL RATE OF PROTECTION AND THE NOMINAL RATE OF ASSISTANCE TO SELECTED AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS: A CASE STUDY OF THE REPUBLIC OF SRPSKA (BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA)

2025-10-03T16:37:31+02:00

This paper aimed to estimate the protection of agricultural producers in the Republic of Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina, using prices of nine selected products during 2018 – 2023. Two widely recognised indicators were employed: the nominal rate of protection and the nominal rate of assistance. The findings highlight consistent gaps between domestic and EU reference prices, as well as discrepancies and insufficient budget allocation for certain agricultural products. Strong protection was recorded for beef, pig meat, poultry meat and egg producers, while milk and potato protection showed variability. Conversely, wheat, grain maize, and sheep meat were largely unprotected throughout the analysed period. These results suggest that agricultural policy in the Republic of Srpska should prioritise targeted budgetary support, reduce market price disparities and promote productivity-enhancing measures to improve competitiveness and ensure sector sustainability.

ASSESSING THE DEGREE OF INNOVATION IN ROMANIAN AGRICULTURE: THE IMPACT OF MODERN TECHNOLOGIES ON PERFORMANCE AND SUSTAINABILITY

2025-10-03T16:37:30+02:00

This study investigates the adoption and perception of technological innovations and sustainable practices among farmers in the South-East region of Romania. The survey targeted mixed crop–livestock farms and post-harvest activities, providing a representative overview of the sector. Findings reveal a moderate uptake of digital tools, including farm management software, drones, and sensors, alongside notable reluctance toward biotechnologies. Conversely, respondents expressed greater receptivity to renewable energy solutions and organic farming. Overall, the level of digitalization remains low, with traditional practices prevailing, consistent with national patterns. These results highlight the need for targeted interventions—such as awareness campaigns, specialized training, financial incentives, pilot projects, and supportive public policies—to facilitate innovation and strengthen agricultural competitiveness. Future research should extend to a national scale and assess the specific economic and environmental impacts of individual technologies, thereby informing strategies to advance a more sustainable and resilient agricultural sector.

MARKET PERSPECTIVES AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN THE CASE OF THE REPUBLIC OF SERBIA

2025-10-03T16:37:26+02:00

Sustainable agriculture (SA) represents an ecological and economic development path with the aim of applying the best agricultural practices and technologies for the production of healthy food, increasing productivity and competitiveness on the market. The aim of the work is to research the perspectives of the market and SA in the territory of Serbia - Mačva. The research was conducted through a survey with 26 questions and 110 respondents. Analysis of the results shows that young people (50%) are familiar with the concepts of SA (57%) and circular economy (50%). Respondents are interested in SA, purchasing products or starting production, with the main motives: health and environmental protection. The main problems are the high price and poor financial support. For the development of sustainable agriculture, education on the implementation of the circular economy in sustainable agriculture systems, financial support and the availability of the necessary inputs for production are necessary.

INSTITUTIONAL AND FINANCIAL CONDITIONS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF RURAL TOURISM IN THE REPUBLIC OF SERBIA: A CASE STUDY

2025-10-03T16:37:25+02:00

This paper explores the institutional and financial conditions that determine the development of rural tourism in the Republic of Serbia, as well as the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in rural areas. Through a systematic examination of relevant institutional policies and financial mechanisms, the study aims to identify key factors that foster development and influence the sustainability of rural tourism. Additionally, by conducting interviews with the owners of five rural tourism households in Serbia as representative stakeholders, the authors analyzed specific circumstances and challenges in rural tourism, providing valuable insights into the practical aspects of institutional and financial regulation in this sector. This analysis offers policy recommendations for improving institutional and financial conditions for rural tourism, and provides guidelines for potential investors. Furthermore, the research aims to contribute to the promotion of entrepreneurship in rural areas, the further development of rural tourism in Serbia, and, consequently, the strengthening of rural sustainability.

INNOVATIVE HOSPITALITY MODEL AS A CATALYST FOR SUSTAINABLE RURAL DEVELOPMENT

2025-10-03T16:37:24+02:00

This study explores the role of innovative hospitality models in fostering sustainable rural development through cultural integration and community engagement. Conducted in Terlan (Terlano), South Tyrol, Italy, the research surveyed 403 tourists to examine motivations related to sustainability, cultural curiosity, and authentic experiences. Using a five-point Likert scale, three motivational factors were identified: Sustainable Escape, Rural Immersion, and Authentic Stay. Results indicate that visitors increasingly value eco-friendly practices, local gastronomy, agritourism, and culturally rooted accommodations. These findings highlight how authentic, community centered experiences not only support local economies but also nurture entrepreneurship and environmental stewardship. The Terlan model demonstrates a practical pathway for rural destinations, such as Fruška Gora, to enhance competitiveness by integrating sustainability with cultural authenticity, thereby offering high-quality rural tourism experiences aligned with contemporary tourist expectations.

ADOPTION OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES AND REDUCTION OF THE DIGITAL DIVIDE AMONG VULNERABLE GROUPS IN THE EUROPEAN UNION

2025-10-03T16:37:22+02:00

In the endogenous theory of economic growth, technological progress is viewed as a crucial factor in the economic development of countries. The advancement of digital technologies and ICT innovations underpins sustainable economic growth over the long term. However, the rapid digital development of the population has not been distributed evenly across all social cohorts. The digital divide stems from insufficient adoption of technology by vulnerable groups. The paper assesses internet use, access to digital devices, and digital skill acquisition among vulnerable groups. The methodological approach includes the computation of the Digital Development Index (“IDA Index”) and the Digital Divide Index (“DIDIX Index”). The results indicate substantial growth in digital technology adoption and a reduction of the digital divide among vulnerable groups in EU (27) countries. The research demonstrates the emergence of the second-level digital divide, marked by broad access to digital technologies and devices, alongside persistent gaps in the digital competencies required for their effective utilization.

LOCAL VARIETIES AND ECONOMIC ASPECTS OF INVESTMENT IN VINEYARD ESTABLISHMENT: THE CASE OF SERBIA

2025-10-03T16:37:21+02:00

Recently, entry into grapevine growing as initial step for wine production has become a wise business decision in Serbian agri-sector. Along promising possibilities for maintaining farm economic sustainability, many new or renewed vineyards have been established. It has become common that, within such vineyards, alongside commercially and internationally recognized grapevine varieties, certain local ones, such as Tamjanika Bela, are also planted. The main goal of the research was to develop the investment analysis towards vineyard establishment as a relevant tool in decision-making process (investment doesn’t involve land acquisition). The applied methodological framework included selected dynamic methods for economic assessment of investment (Net Present Value – NPV, Internal Rate of Return – IRR and Dynamic Payback Period – DPP) supported by field data from one grape producer in Trstenik wine-growing subregion. The results, NPV of 2,418.87 EUR, IRR of 8.81%, and DPP of 9 years and 1.46 months, confirmed economic justification of vineyard enlargement.

THE IMPACT OF EDUCATION AND ENTREPRENEURIAL SKILLS ON THE FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF AGRICULTURAL ENTREPRENEURS

2025-10-03T16:37:20+02:00

In today’s business environment, the agricultural sector faces numerous challenges, including climate change, market fluctuations, and the need for innovation. Education and entrepreneurial skills are key factors for improving the business performance of agricultural entrepreneurs. The aim of this research is to examine the impact of education and entrepreneurial skills on the financial success of agricultural entrepreneurs. The study was conducted on a sample of 567 entrepreneurs from the agribusiness sector, using three key variables: entrepreneurial education, entrepreneurial skills, and financial performance. The results showed that both education and skills have a statistically significant and positive impact on the financial performance of entrepreneurs, with the influence of skills being more pronounced. Strategic decision-making, resource management, and the ability to make quick decisions in complex situations proved to be especially important competencies.

RESEARCH ON THE MEDIATING EFFECTS OF RURAL ROADS ON AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT

2025-10-03T16:37:19+02:00

Rural roads, regarded as the “entrepreneurial capital” of agricultural modernization, serve as critical infrastructure for connecting urban and rural resources and ensuring the smooth circulation of agricultural products. Their level of development profoundly influences rural economic vitality and farmers’ well-being. However, financial constraints in rural areas necessitate the strategic optimization of investment to maximize both the direct benefits and indirect impacts of roads. Based on a composite multiple mediating effect model, this study reveals that rural roads drive agricultural growth through dual pathways of “direct empowerment” and “indirect catalysis.” The results indicate that rural roads directly break the “honeycomb” spatial lock of farmland by promoting land consolidation (e.g., returning farmland to cultivation, merging small plots into larger fields), thereby optimizing spatial layout and establishing a core pathway of “road construction → land transfer → output growth.” Simultaneously, rural roads significantly enhance agricultural mechanization, accelerating the transition toward large-scale and intensive production, while jointly with land optimization, reshaping the rural employment structure.

THE INFLUENCE OF REPORTING ON SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT ON THE AUDITOR’S OPINION ON BUSINESS OPERATIONS OF AGRICULTURAL COMPANIES IN THE REPUBLIC OF SERBIA

2025-10-03T16:37:15+02:00

The auditor’s opinion on the operations of agricultural companies in the Republic of Serbia, conditional on reporting on sustainable development, is the topic of this paper. Although reporting on sustainable development is a legal obligation, its absence does not affect the audit opinion. The aim of this paper is to confirm the independence of the audit opinion on sustainable development reporting. The research was conducted on a sample of agricultural enterprises in a three-year period. The audit opinions of those companies and “Annual business reports”, were analyzed. The reports lack quantitative indicators of sustainability and they are primarily descriptive. The Fisher test confirmed the independence of the audit opinion and reporting on sustainable development. The research confirmed that the transparency of investment in sustainable development still does not significantly influence the audit opinion. A proposal was made on how reporting on sustainable development can be improved, within the institutional framework that will impose reporting obligations, and within the reporting of agricultural enterprises.

TRADE DEPENDENCE AND FOOD SECURITY: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE WHEAT SECTOR IN EUROPE

2025-10-03T16:37:14+02:00

This study explores regional disparities in three key indicators of agri-food security related to wheat across Europe: the Import Dependency Ratio (IDR), the Self Sufficiency Ratio (SSR), and wheat consumption per capita (Cpc). The analysis was conducted at two levels: (1) Europe as a whole, based on a sample of 10 annual observations, and (2) 35 individual European countries, comprising a panel of 350 observations for the period 2014–2023. To compute the aforementioned indicators, the study draws on four primary variables related to wheat: production (tonnes), import volume (tonnes), export volume (tonnes), and population size (in thousands). Descriptive statistical methods were first applied, including the coefficient of variation (Cv) following logarithmic transformation, Pearson correlation coefficients, scatter plots and heatmap. The main objective of this research is to examine the interrelationships between wheat security indicators and key demographic and economic factors across Europe.

ECONOMICAL POTATO PRODUCTION ACCORDING TO THE ARIMA MODELING APPROACH FOR CLIMATE ADAPTATION

2025-10-03T16:37:13+02:00

In is evident that global climate change, marked by decreased rainfall and higher temperatures affecting potato economical production, therefore they are yield projections are a crucial element in agricultural planning. Climate change, especially drought, poses significant challenges, necessitating adaptive strategies to mitigate adverse impacts. Potatoes, as a vital food crop, hold exceptional nutritional, biological, agronomic, and economic importance. This study aims to project potato production, average yields, and cultivated areas in Serbia over the next three years using ARIMA models based on 19 years of time-series data. The model’s focus on short-term projections (2024–2026) aligns with Serbia’s need for immediate climate adaptation strategies. Model performance was validated using RMSE and AIC/ BIC metrics, with comparative analysis against ETS benchmarks. The results inform strategic responses to climate risks, provide a valuable approach to yield projection, advancing sustainable agriculture, food security, and facilitating complex production planning.

HEALTHCARE MANAGEMENT AS A KEY COMPONENT OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF SERBIA AND SLOVENIA

2025-10-03T16:37:12+02:00

This study explores the role of health management as a driver of sustainable rural development in Serbia and Slovenia. Using quantitative methods (cluster, correlation, and regression analyses), it compares perceptions of health management and its impact on local communities. Results show that health management is positively perceived and linked to economic diversification, user satisfaction, and infrastructure quality. Slovenia performs better in accessibility and diversity of health services, reflecting its advanced institutional framework, while Serbia emphasizes marketing management, digital literacy, and economic benefits, indicating a growth phase. Strong correlations between health management and sustainable development dimensions confirm that effective health management improves rural well being. Economic impact and user loyalty are the strongest predictors of development outcomes. Findings highlight the need for tailored policies addressing demographic and ecological challenges and fostering cross-country learning. The study recommends further research to maximize health management’s contribution to rural sustainability and inform policymakers and stakeholders.

EVALUATING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE MODELS FOR ASSESSING THE INITIATION OF BANKRUPTCY PROCEEDINGS

2025-10-03T16:37:27+02:00

Using predictive models for assessing the initiation of bankruptcy proceedings constitutes a proactive strategy aimed at preserving financial stability and promoting the long-term viability of businesses. This study focuses on companies in the agricultural and food production sectors within the Republic of Serbia, specifically examining those for which bankruptcy proceedings were initiated in 2022, based on their operational activities in 2021. The primary objective of this research is to evaluate the efficiency of the predictive models in forecasting the likelihood of bankruptcy proceedings one year before their initiation. The requisite data for applying these models were obtained from the financial statements of the analyzed companies. The findings indicate that the Vlaović Begović (VB) model demonstrated the highest efficacy in predicting the onset of bankruptcy proceedings within the agricultural sector. Conversely, the Altman Z’ score proved to be the most appropriate model for assessing bankruptcy within the food sector.

BIRDWATCHING POTENTIAL IN THE PROTECTED NATURE AREAS OF THE VILLAGES OF OMOLJICA AND IVANOVO, VOJVODINA, SERBIA

2025-10-03T16:37:16+02:00

This study explores the key motivations and satisfaction factors influencing tourists’ intentions to revisit protected nature areas for birdwatching in the villages of Omoljica and Ivanovo in Vojvodina, Serbia. The research surveyed 210 domestic tourists who participated in birdwatching excursions organized to mark World Tourism Day in September 2024. Logistic regression analysis revealed that motivations related to socializing and relaxation negatively affected revisit intentions, while satisfaction with transport services positively influenced the likelihood of return visits. The findings underscore the importance of improving transport quality to support birdwatching tourism. This research contributes to a better understanding of tourists’ motivations and satisfaction with birdwatching experiences and offers practical insights for the development of tailored tourism offers in protected rural areas.

LEGAL DIMENSIONS OF EU SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE POLICIES

2025-10-03T16:37:10+02:00

Sustainable agriculture represents a key aspect of the EU’s environmental policy, as it has a significant impact on biodiversity, soil quality, and water resources. The European Commission implements a set of policies aimed at aligning economic productivity with the protection of natural resources and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. This paper focuses on the analysis of European Union policies in the field of sustainable agriculture, with particular emphasis on the strategic and legal framework. Special attention is given to the main instruments supporting the transition toward ecologically, economically, and socially sustainable models of food production: the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), the European Green Deal, the Farm to Fork Strategy, and the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030. Furthermore, examples of good practices implemented by certain EU Member States are examined. The findings highlight the necessity of amending future EU acts to incorporate digitalization, innovation, and the level of climate-related risks.