Strengthening National Competitiveness: The Evolution of Economic Clusters in Egypt

Purpose: This paper examines the evolution of clusters and economic zone policies in Egypt and assesses their role in improving national competitiveness. Further, it provides insights to developing countries like Egypt on how to strengthen their national competitiveness by effectively leveraging clusters and economic agglomeration policies, such as economic zones. Methodology: The paper critically analyzes existing literature on modern cluster policies and economic zones, illustrating the evolution of economic cluster policies in Egypt. It also evaluates the contribution and impact of economic zones on improving national competitiveness. Findings: Despite recent policy reforms in implementing an economic cluster-based strategy, particularly economic zones, several constraints prevent these economic zones from fully reaching their potential to attract foreign investment and address the national trade deficit in Egypt. While these economic zones increased exports, they didn\u27t sufficiently reduce the national trade deficit. Moreover, the Egyptian Government faces an increasing challenge in maintaining Egypt\u27s position as a leading investment destination in North Africa and the wider region, mainly in front of the face of the increased competition from other emerging economies. Implications: Egypt\u27s recent attempts to implement an economic cluster-based strategy for enhancing national competitiveness highlight the need for closer alignment between the country\u27s economic national strategies, including Egypt\u27s Vision 2030, National Investment Plan, Trade and Industry Development Strategy 2016-2020, and National SME and Export Development Strategies, with the objectives of the economic zone. Originality: This study contributes to understanding how to strengthen national competitiveness in developing countries by examining the evolution of clusters and economic zones in Egypt. It provides valuable insights for academic researchers and policymakers seeking to enhance national competitiveness through strategic economic policies. Limitations and directions for future research: Further research on the impact of economic clusters on leveraging national competitiveness in Egypt could significantly improve related policymaking. Comparative analyses of other countries\u27 experiences could also provide valuable lessons for policy formulation

The Rise in Food Prices and the Export of Milled Rice in the Greater Mekong Subregion

Purpose: This study examines how responsive the exports of milled rice are to rising food prices in the Greater Mekong Subregion. Methodology: The research employed panel data regression models, including Fixed Effects and Random Effects, and the Pooled Ordinary Least Squares to examine data spanning from 1996 to 2020 for three countries in the subregion: Cambodia, Vietnam, and Thailand. Findings: The results show that milled rice exports from the subregion were responsive to the food price surge of 2008-2009, i.e., exports increased following the price surge. In addition, the production of rice was found to be positively associated with exports.  Implications: The findings emphasize the importance of milled rice exports in the Greater Mekong Subregion. The responsiveness of rice exports to the price surge implies that exporters are ready to increase exports constantly. This provides policymakers with inputs to formulate policies and strategies to increase exports for stabilizing food prices and increasing rice farmers’ income. Originality: The study contributes to the existing body of literature, providing new evidence of the milled rice exports responding to the food price surge by looking into the major rice-exporting countries in the Greater Mekong Subregion. Limitations and directions for future research: The study is not free from limitation due to the unavailability of data, leading to the exclusion of two countries in the Greater Mekong Subregion. The generalizability of the findings may be limited within this region, therefore, setting directions for future empirical studies to incorporate major rice-exporting countries in other regions

The Influence of Macroeconomic Variables on Indonesia’s Non-cyclical Sector Stock Price Index Post-COVID-19 Pandemic

Purpose: This study aims to analyze the effect of macroeconomic variables, namely the exchange rate, inflation, Real Sales Index (RSI), and M2, on Indonesia\u27s non-cyclical sector stock price index after the COVID-19 pandemic. Methodology: The study uses multiple linear regression to evaluate the partial and simultaneous effects of the study\u27s selected variables on Indonesia\u27s non-cyclical sector stock price index. Findings: The results show that the exchange rate, inflation, and RSI partially do not have a significant impact, but the M2 broad money supply variable has a significant effect on the stock price index of the non-cyclical sector. These four variables simultaneously significantly influence the non-cyclical sector\u27s stock price index. Implications: The findings indicate that although some of the macroeconomic independent variables\u27 influence on the stock price index of the non-cyclical sector tends to be weak, these variables together influence the movement of the stock price index. Originality: The study provides insights for investors and policymakers on the importance of considering macroeconomic dynamics in managing portfolios and maintaining the stability of the non-cyclical sector. Limitations and directions for future research: The study focuses only on the non-cyclical sector specific to a country, and the data is limited to the post-COVID-19 pandemic, from June 2023 to August 2024. Future research could explore incorporating additional relevant variables and broadening the scope to include a more diverse range of sectors and regions

Online Learning in Enhancing Educational Outcomes: Bangladesh\u27s Perspectives

Purpose: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of online learning platforms in improving educational outcomes for girls in Bangladesh, focusing on participants\u27 experiences and challenges considering SDG 4 and SDG 5.  Methodology: This study used a qualitative approach with a sample of 43 girls aged 20-26 from urban and rural areas across Bangladesh. Participants were selected via purposive sampling based on their experience with online learning platforms. Data were collected through in-depth interviews conducted in person or remotely. Thematic analysis was used to identify key insights by coding and grouping the interview responses into themes, focusing on the effectiveness of online learning platforms in improving educational outcomes. Findings: The findings highlight the transformative impact of online education in improving educational outcomes for girls in developing countries like Bangladesh. Online platforms address barriers such as geographic isolation, safety concerns, and cultural restrictions, allowing girls, especially in rural areas, to access education. Respondents noted the benefits of flexible learning, reduced absenteeism, and enhanced participation in STEM. OER and MOOCs provide diverse, high-quality, and affordable learning opportunities, while AI tools support academic tasks. However, ethical concerns regarding AI usage persist. And finally, online education fosters inclusive, equitable education and aligns with SDG 4 and SDG 5 goals. Implications- The implications of the research are that it will help the policymakers to address the functionality of Internet-based online education in increasing educational access to girls and avoiding gender disparity when it comes to education and skill development of the girls in the developing nations in achieving goals 4 and 5 of sustainable development. Limitations and directions for future research: Future research needs larger, longitudinal mixed-methods designs with objective learning measures and wider coverage in Bangladesh to test causal effects and scalability. Originality: This research offers unique insights into the intersection of online learning and gender equity in education with a perspective on how technology can help achieve SDG 4 and 5 in developing countries

Mall Shoppers and Their Decision-Making from Indian Perspective - A Critical Review of Literature

Purpose: This paper critically reviews the existing literature pertinent to the decision-making styles of mall shoppers in India. It also provides insights for mall owners, store managers, retailers, and sales staff on maximizing the experience of Indian mall shoppers in the light of competition and emerging technologies. Methodology: The paper critically analyzes existing conceptual and empirical literature on consumers\u27 buying decision-making styles, focusing on Indian mall shoppers. Findings: Indian malls have constantly undergone adaptation and changes in both style and substance to entice increasingly sophisticated, fussy, and capricious consumers. Findings suggest that Indian mall shoppers widely exhibit price, recreational, quality, and novelty consciousness decision-making styles but are confused over choice and variety seeking. Implications: The findings draw the attention of mall owners and retail marketers to understand shoppers\u27 insights and orientation regarding product decision-making and store selection. Further, the study connotes specific facts for retailers and mall developers facing dilemmas about choosing the appropriate strategy for targeting shoppers and attracting greater footfall. Originality: This study contributes to understanding the decision-making styles of mall shoppers in India through the literature. It provides valuable insights for academic researchers and marketers about the decision-making of Indian mall shoppers. Limitations and directions for future research: Further research on the buying decision-making styles of Indian mall shoppers, including their changing tastes and preferences, could significantly contribute to design strategies by mall owners and retail marketers. Comparative analyses of mall-preferring shoppers and consumers preferring unorganized retail outlets could add value to understanding decision-making factors

Positive Effects of Perceived Quality of Parent-Adolescent Communication on Academic Motivation and Achievement of Adolescents

Purpose: This study investigates how the perceived quality of parent-adolescent communication influences academic motivation and achievement among students in a high-stakes academic setting. Methodology: A quantitative, cross-sectional design was employed, involving 278 students from Grades 7 to 10 at a competitive public secondary school in the Philippines. Data were collected using the Parent-Adolescent Communication Scale and the Deo-Mohan Academic Achievement Motivation Scale. The study assessed academic achievement using students\u27 general weighted averages. Stratified random sampling ensured proportional representation across year levels, and multi-category logistic regression was used to examine the effects of communication quality on academic outcomes. Findings: High-quality parent-adolescent communication had a statistically significant positive effect on academic motivation and achievement. Conversely, low-quality communication had a more negative impact on motivation than on achievement. The findings support the Self-Determination Theory, suggesting that supportive communication satisfies adolescents\u27 psychological needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness, thereby enhancing intrinsic motivation and performance. Implications: The study highlights the importance of parenting programs that promote open, empathetic, and autonomy-supportive communication. Educators and policymakers should consider integrating family communication initiatives into academic support systems to enhance student outcomes, particularly in high-pressure school environments. Originality: This study contributes to the literature by isolating communication quality as a specific dimension of parental involvement and examining its role within a highly competitive academic context. Limitations and directions for future research: The findings are limited to a single school and do not distinguish between maternal and paternal communication. Future research should employ longitudinal designs and explore the effects of specific communication styles

Exploring ESG Dimensions in Cambodia: Findings from Various Industries

Purpose: This study explores the integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles across various industries in Cambodia, aiming to assess current adoption levels, key challenges, and professional perceptions. Methodology: The study used a mixed-methods approach, combining industry assessments, surveys with business professionals, and expert interviews to gather quantitative and qualitative insights. Findings: The results show that while corporate ESG disclosures are generally above average, significant governance transparency and environmental accountability gaps exist. The survey responses indicate skepticism among professionals about the authenticity of ESG commitments, suggesting a potential risk of greenwashing. Expert interviews confirm that ESG awareness is growing, but practical implementation remains limited due to regulatory shortcomings and resource constraints. Implications: The findings emphasize stronger ESG regulations, transparent reporting standards, and enhanced stakeholder engagement to support meaningful corporate sustainability in Cambodia. Originality: This study addresses a notable gap in ESG literature focused on emerging markets, offering industry-specific insights and actionable policy and corporate strategy recommendations. Limitations and directions for future research: Using self-reported data and qualitative assessments may introduce bias. Future research should consider longitudinal designs and cross-country comparisons to monitor ESG progress

Factors Influencing Students’ Choice of Accounting Major in Cambodia

Higher education institutions in Cambodia have offered a major in accounting since the private sector was permitted to provide education services. The development of the country, which sees the inflow of foreign companies and the growth of local firms, the full adoption of the accounting standards, the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) by the National Accounting Council (NAC) may have induced the growing demand for professional accountants and the enrollment of students in accounting program. Recently, a major in accounting has attracted increasing interest from students. This study determined factors influencing Cambodian students’ decision to major in accounting. Three hundred ninety-four 394 students currently studying accounting were surveyed using the anonymous self-administered questionnaire through Google Forms. The Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was used to construct the variables, and multiple regression was employed to analyze the factors influencing students’ choice of accounting major. The results showed that personal interest, school reputation, and career expectations are significant factors. Although female students account for the majority of accounting students, gender was not found to have a significant influence on students’ choices. The results suggest that higher education institutions should prioritize strengthening their reputations by offering internationally accredited curricula and programs so that their graduates will be qualified to work in top-class companies, boosting students’ interest and expectation in pursuing accounting careers

The Effect of Corporate Social Responsibility Performance on Tax Avoidance in Cambodia: The Moderating Role of Board Independence

Purpose: This study seeks to explore the connection between corporate social responsibility (CSR) performance and tax avoidance (TA) among a sample of Cambodian companies listed on the Cambodian Securities Exchange (CSX). It also investigates whether board independence moderates the relationship between these two variables. Methodology: Several statistical analyses have been conducted using the effective tax rate (ETR) and extracting accounting data from these companies\u27 annual reports. Findings: The study reveals that Cambodian companies investing significant resources in charitable initiatives are less likely to participate in TA practices. It has also been realized that the influence of CSR in mitigating the likelihood of engaging in TA practices is boosted in firms with a higher proportion of independent directors. Implications: The study\u27s findings have significant policy implications as they contribute to a better understanding of TA practices and CSR. This understanding can benefit numerous investors, regulators, and academics interested in firms\u27 tax behavior. Furthermore, the findings can aid tax administrations in identifying conditions that heighten the risk of TA practices, thereby assisting in formulating effective tax systems that enhance firms\u27 tax compliance. Originality: This study represents one of the initial inquiries into the relationship between CSR and TA practices in Cambodia. It provides a unique perspective by furnishing empirical evidence on this relationship within the Cambodian context, which differs from other cultural and institutional environments where previous studies have been conducted. It also offers new insights into how the independence of board directors moderates the relationship between CSR and TA. Limitations and directions for future research: This study primarily relies on firms\u27 disclosed donation figures in financial statements. As such, the study may only partially represent the extent of CSR involvement and potentially impact the accuracy of CSR assessment

Does Corporate Social Responsibility Engagement Reduce Earnings Management? Evidence from Cambodian-Listed Companies

This research aims to explore the influence of ethics on financial reporting quality by investigating the correlation between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and accrual-based earnings management (AEM) within a sample of Cambodian non-financial listed companies over the nine years from 2014 to 2022. The study reveals that the level of involvement in AEM is lower in Cambodian firms, which have a higher tendency to engage in charitable activities. The study\u27s findings hold significant implications as they contribute to a deeper understanding of financial reporting practices and CSR initiatives, which may interest stakeholders, including investors, regulatory bodies, and scholars interested in ethical business practices. Furthermore, it offers valuable insights into the ongoing debate surrounding the impact of ethics on the quality of financial reporting, particularly within emerging economies