nep-tra New Economics Papers
on Transition Economics
Issue of 2024‒05‒13
nine papers chosen by
Maksym Obrizan, Kyiv School of Economics


  1. Cost-Effectiveness of Women´s Vaccination Against HPV: Results for the Czech Republic By Martina Luskova; Kseniya Bortnikova
  2. Foreign Direct Investment and Trade By Kofi Aaron A-O Agyei-Henaku; Charlotte Badu-Prah; Akua Agyeiwaa-Afrane; Ferguson K. Gidiglo; Francis Y. Srofenyoh; Justice G. Djokoto
  3. Geostrategic aspects of policies on food security in the light of recent global tensions – Insights from seven countries By Rudloff, Bettina; Mensah, Kristina; Wieck, Christine
  4. The Russian Invasion of Ukraine, Fertilizer Prices, and Food Security: Evidence from Rice-Producing Economies in Asia By Mishra , Ashok; Valera , Harold Glenn; Yamano, Takashi; Pede, Valerien
  5. Changing Global Linkages: A New Cold War? By Ms. Gita Gopinath; Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas; Mr. Andrea F Presbitero; Petia Topalova
  6. Strategic evaluation of the technology transfer and IPR protection systems of Bulgaria, Croatia and Romania and recommendations for their enhancement By BOLE Domen; GALABOVA Lidia; HALEY Christopher; KOKOROTSIKOS Paris; MATANOVAC-VUČKOVIĆ Romana; RIZZUTO Carlo; TAYLOR Stephen; VLADUT Gabriel; ZAMBELLI Mauro
  7. Analyzing the Relationship between Online Purchasing Behavior and Levels of Educational Attainment in the Slovak Republic By Richard Fedorko
  8. A land of sages: A legacy of former elites and university professors in Vietnam By Luu Duc Toan Huynh; Kiet Tuan Duong
  9. What Motivates Generation Z in Vietnam to Purchase Organic Food? An Application of Extended Theory of Planned Behaviour By Thi-Minh-Ngoc Luu

  1. By: Martina Luskova (Institute of Economic Studies, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic); Kseniya Bortnikova (Institute of Economic Studies, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic)
    Abstract: This paper evaluates the cost-effectiveness of vaccinating women against human papillomaviruses (HPV) in the Czech Republic, where HPV is the main cause of most cervical carcinomas. It examines the cost-effectiveness of the current reimbursement policy for HPV vaccination compared to the suggested change. Using a homogeneous multistate Markov model, we approximate transitions among states that represent the progression stages of cervical carcinoma, utilizing healthcare reimbursement data from public health insurance. The analysis reveals that increasing immunization coverage from 65.8% to 80% is cost-effective, given the threshold of 1.2 million CZK per quality-adjusted life year. Similarly, expanding the eligible age for vaccination reimbursement from 13 to include ages 13 through 15 years, while also increasing coverage, results in comparable cost-effectiveness. Despite certain limitations, our findings suggest that enhancing the immunization coverage of HPV vaccination for women is economically justified. Consequently, we advocate for the implementation of the proposed policy modifications.
    Keywords: Cost-effectiveness, Markov model, HPV, vaccination, cervical carcinoma, women, Czech Republic
    JEL: I11 I13 I18 C61
    Date: 2024–04
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fau:wpaper:wp2024_16&r=tra
  2. By: Kofi Aaron A-O Agyei-Henaku; Charlotte Badu-Prah; Akua Agyeiwaa-Afrane; Ferguson K. Gidiglo; Francis Y. Srofenyoh; Justice G. Djokoto
    Abstract: Eastern Europe experienced a surge in trade and capital movements after the introduction of the market economy. We investigate the substitution and complementary effect of foreign direct investment (FDI) and trade in the agricultural sector in Eastern Europe. We employed panel data from 1995 to 2020 for the 23 countries and fitted these to fixed and random effects estimators. We found that inward FDI did not influence trade. Outward FDI substituted exports and trade openness in the transition countries of Eastern Europe. However, outward FDI complemented imports and trade openness in Eastern Europe.
    Keywords: Complement, Eastern Europe, foreign direct investment, substitute, transition economies.
    JEL: F12 F14
    Date: 2024–04–04
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:eei:rpaper:eeri_rp_2024_04&r=tra
  3. By: Rudloff, Bettina; Mensah, Kristina; Wieck, Christine
    Abstract: This study contributes to the recent literature on geostrategic aspects of economic policy and the objective of economic security by addressing food security as a subcategory within economic security. Against the backdrop of the COVID-19 crisis and the Russian invasion of Ukraine, this study analyses whether and how the relevance of food security as a national policy goal has changed. It focuses on the questions of whether countries’ policy choices towards this objective have initiated longer-term strategic shifts, rather than just acute reactions, and analyses the extent to which these adjustments are influenced by underlying geopolitical considerations. To answer these questions, developments in food security policies are identified, focusing primarily on the perspective of security of supply. This perspective fits with the recent political focus and current initiatives by many countries aiming at national economic and supply security in general.
    Keywords: Food Security and Poverty
    Date: 2024–04
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ags:iatrcp:341933&r=tra
  4. By: Mishra , Ashok (Arizona State University); Valera , Harold Glenn (International Rice Research Institute); Yamano, Takashi (Asian Development Bank); Pede, Valerien (International Rice Research Institute)
    Abstract: This study assesses the impact of increased fertilizer prices under different scenarios on rice production, consumption, trade and prices. Using a global rice model based on a partial equilibrium framework, the simulation results show that a 30% to 100% increase in fertilizer prices would reduce rice yields by 0.45% to 1.33%, but increase world rice prices by 7% to 23% between 2022 and 2025. As the world market price for rice increases significantly, rice trade and rice consumption will decrease accordingly, estimated at 1.7% to 7.0% and 0.27% to 0.78%, respectively. The simulation results also show that retail prices for rice would increase significantly in all rice-consuming countries. The impact of higher fertilizer prices would vary widely in the major rice-producing countries.
    Keywords: rice; world prices; Asia; rice trade; food security; partial equilibrium model
    JEL: F51 Q17 Q18
    Date: 2024–04–30
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ris:adbewp:0724&r=tra
  5. By: Ms. Gita Gopinath; Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas; Mr. Andrea F Presbitero; Petia Topalova
    Abstract: Global linkages are changing amidst elevated geopolitical tensions and a surge in policies directed at increasing supply chain resilience and national security. Using granular bilateral data, this paper provides new evidence of trade and investment fragmentation along geopolitical lines since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and compares it to the historical experience of the early years of the Cold War. Gravity model estimates point to significant declines in trade and FDI flows between countries in geopolitically distant blocs since the onset of the war in Ukraine, relative to flows between countries in the same bloc (roughly 12% and 20%, respectively). While the extent of fragmentation is still relatively small and we do not know how longlasting it will be, the decoupling between the rival geopolitical blocs during the Cold War suggests it could worsen considerably should geopolitical tensions persist and trade restrictive policies intensify. Different from the early years of the Cold War, a set of nonaligned ‘connector’ countries are rapidly gaining importance and serving as a bridge between blocs. The emergence of connectors has likely brought resilience to global trade and activity, but does not necessarily increase diversification, strengthen supply chains, or lessen strategic dependence.
    Keywords: Trade; Foreign direct investment; Geoeconomics; Fragmentation
    Date: 2024–04–05
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:imf:imfwpa:2024/076&r=tra
  6. By: BOLE Domen; GALABOVA Lidia; HALEY Christopher; KOKOROTSIKOS Paris; MATANOVAC-VUČKOVIĆ Romana; RIZZUTO Carlo; TAYLOR Stephen; VLADUT Gabriel; ZAMBELLI Mauro
    Abstract: With a view to maximise the impact of EU Cohesion Policy and RRP investments in the field of Research and Innovation (R&I) in Bulgaria, Croatia and Romania, this report provides a strategic evaluation of the three countries’ Technology Transfer systems with concrete recommendations for enhancing academia-industry collaboration and research commercialisation. The report aims to help Bulgaria, Croatia, and Romania to build up effective Research and Innovation (R&I) systems, in particular through the strengthening of Technology Transfer (TT) and Intellectual Property Rights (IPR). The report is the result of extensive research, primarily interviews and consultations with approximately 100 stakeholders, the majority of which from academia (Technology Transfer Offices (TTOs) at Universities and Research Institutes) and government authorities (ministries; agencies at national and, where relevant, regional level), as well as some industry representatives, cluster associations and other innovation-focused stakeholders (science and technology parks, incubators, accelerators) from the three countries at focus. The interviews were conducted in the second half of 2022 and first half of 2023. This study presents a country-by-country analysis of the technology transfer landscape; regulatory frameworks, skills-capacities-capabilities; academia-industry collaboration dynamics; financing instruments and mechanisms; patenting of academic inventions, among others. The targeted findings and recommendations contained in the three country-focused chapters are followed by two horizontally-applicable chapters on Financing mechanism and capacity building activities; and TT Tools and IP Guidelines, which have a relevance to and could benefit all three countries. The work was commissioned by DG REGIO to the Joint Research Centre, which coordinated and directed the group of independent experts that authored the present report.
    Date: 2024–01
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ipt:iptwpa:jrc136807&r=tra
  7. By: Richard Fedorko (University of Prešov in Prešov, Faculty of Management and Business, Konstantinova 16, 080 01, Prešov, Slovakia Author-2-Name: Mikuláš Kizák Author-2-Workplace-Name: University of Prešov in Prešov, Faculty of Management and Business, Konstantinova 16, 080 01, Prešov, Slovakia Author-3-Name: Dárius Župina Author-3-Workplace-Name: University of Prešov in Prešov, Faculty of Management and Business, Konstantinova 16, 080 01, Prešov, Slovakia Author-4-Name: Author-4-Workplace-Name: Author-5-Name: Author-5-Workplace-Name: Author-6-Name: Author-6-Workplace-Name: Author-7-Name: Author-7-Workplace-Name: Author-8-Name: Author-8-Workplace-Name:)
    Abstract: " Objective - The global surge in internet purchases drives economic growth and contributes significantly to developed countries' improved living standards. Methodology/Technique - This unprecedented e-commerce boom, facilitated by the convenience of round-the-clock online shopping, has reshaped consumer behavior. Within this landscape, educational level emerges as a prominent demographic determinant influencing online purchasing patterns. The Slovak Republic has experienced an upward trajectory in internet purchases across various educational segments, highlighting a growing preference for online shopping experiences. Findings - However, it is important to note that a discernible gap in online shopping behavior persists between these educational strata. Moreover, Slovakia's achievement of its convergence goal, aligning with the European Union's admission average, underscores its commitment to growth and development. This accomplishment highlights the nation's progress and reflects the pivotal role of e-commerce in shaping economic trajectories. Novelty - We analyze the trend of online shopping in Slovakia compared to the EU 27 average and top-performing countries, finding that Slovakia exhibits a steeper trend, especially among highly educated individuals. In an era where online interactions and transactions have become integral to daily life, the nexus between educational attainment, online purchasing behavior, and economic advancement demands continued research and analysis. Type of Paper - Empirical"
    Keywords: E-commerce, Education level, Slovak Republic, Internet purchases, Convergence
    JEL: D12 L81
    Date: 2024–03–31
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:gtr:gatrjs:jmmr330&r=tra
  8. By: Luu Duc Toan Huynh (School of Business and Management, Queen Mary University of London.); Kiet Tuan Duong (School for Business and Society, University of York.)
    Abstract: Using a unique manually collected dataset of 3, 131 former elites, who successfully passed the imperial examination from 1075 to 1919 (Ly Dynasty to Nguyen Dynasty), and 1, 324 successful professorship candidates from the Vietnam State Council of Professorship between 2021 and 2023, we consistently obtain precise estimates that a higher number of former elites is associated with a greater number of appointed contemporary professors (both associate and full). We also document that such modern human capital is influenced by the distance to the Hoan Kiem District, where the professorship examination venue is located. Additionally, we find that the social capital of these former elites primarily benefits those who were born, raised, and currently work in areas with a higher density of former elites. Using manually gathered geographical data on ancestral temples, names of schools associated with elites, and street names attributed to elites, we identified three cultural mechanisms that elucidate the influence of historical elites on contemporary university professorship in Vietnam. Our findings highlight the influence of historical tradition on current human capital in a Confucian country.
    Keywords: Education; Elites; Tenured professorship; Vietnam academia
    JEL: I25 N35 O15 Z1
    Date: 2024–03
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:cgs:wpaper:115&r=tra
  9. By: Thi-Minh-Ngoc Luu (International School, Vietnam National University Hanoi, 10000, Hanoi, Vietnam Author-2-Name: Phuong Mai Nguyen Author-2-Workplace-Name: International School, Vietnam National University Hanoi, 10000, Hanoi, Vietnam Author-3-Name: Bao Trung Phan Author-3-Workplace-Name: International School, Vietnam National University Hanoi, 10000, Hanoi, Vietnam Author-4-Name: Ta Huy Hung Author-4-Workplace-Name: International School, Vietnam National University Hanoi, 10000, Hanoi, Vietnam Author-5-Name: Author-5-Workplace-Name: Author-6-Name: Author-6-Workplace-Name: Author-7-Name: Author-7-Workplace-Name: Author-8-Name: Author-8-Workplace-Name:)
    Abstract: " Objective - As Vietnam is a densely populated country with stable economic growth and rising concern for environmental problems in recent years, people are increasingly showing more interest in organic food. This study aims to explore the purchase intention of Vietnamese Generation Z (Gen Z) towards organic food. Methodology - We extended the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) with three specific pro-environmental factors that are health consciousness, environmental concern, and knowledge of organic food, to investigate the purchase intention of Gen Z. A self-administered online survey was conducted in Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City as they are most populated cities in the country. Findings - 426 valid responses were received for data analysis after three months. Linear regression analysis was run in SPSS software to test six hypotheses. Research findings reveal that attitude has the most substantial influence on the purchase intention of Gen Z, followed by health consciousness, subjective norms, and personal norms. Notably, environmental concerns and knowledge of organic food do not necessarily affect Gen Z's purchase intention. Our findings suggest that related stakeholders in the organic food market adjust their production and marketing tactics to attract Gen Z better. Novelty - The novelty of this paper is attributed to our effort to integrate pro-environmental variables into the TPB to test their impact on organic food purchase intention in a new research context of a transition country. Type of Paper - Empirical "
    Keywords: Organic food, Purchase intention, Generation Z, Vietnam
    JEL: M31 M59
    Date: 2024–03–31
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:gtr:gatrjs:jmmr328&r=tra

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