Economic of Agriculture

STRATEGIC APPROACH TO ASSESSING THE EFFICIENCY OF AGRICULTURAL AND TOURISM BUSINESS IN THE ECONOMY OF SERBIA

2025-12-22T18:30:50+01:00

The authors will present a strategic approach to assessing the performance of agriculture and tourism in the Republic of Serbia. The purpose of the analysis is to determine which of the given economic activities has better economic performance and, accordingly, has a greater impact on the economic growth and development of the Republic of Serbia. The research covered the financial statements of large and medium-sized enterprises in the areas being analyzed. The results of the ratio analysis indicate that both activities jointly contribute to the economic growth and development of the Republic of Serbia. When it comes to determining bankruptcy, the Altman Z` score model has been adapted for developing economies. According to this model, agriculture and tourism, at the level of calculated average values, operate in a zone of moderate risk, which is a golden mean and a good indicator of their business performance.

RECONCILIATION OF AMOUNTS IN BUDGET EXECUTION REPORTS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS USING THE EXAMPLE OF THE UNITED NATIONS’ FOOD AND AGRICULTURE ORGANIZATION (FAO)

2025-12-22T18:30:49+01:00

Budget execution reports and financial statements have a complementary function, but present different data on revenues, expenditures and liabilities. In order to make the differences between these reports clearer, the International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) require reconciliation of actual amounts from budget execution reports with data in financial statements. This paper analyzes how different entities approach this reconciliation process, which makes comparisons difficult. The paper points to the need for more detailed guidance to increase comparability between these reports. An analysis of available financial statements of international organizations in the public sector, prepared in accordance with IPSAS, has identified differences in practices and insufficient explanations of these differences. Particular emphasis will be placed on the interpretation of the financial report of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). The purpose of such measures is to strengthen transparency and ensure greater comparability of public sector financial reports, which contributes to greater credibility of financial reporting in this sector.

TEA CULTURE BRAND MARKETING TO ACHIEVE FARMERS’ INCOME ENHANCEMENT BASED ON BIG DATA VISUAL ANALYSIS--A CASE STUDY OF HEZHOU LIUBAO TEA IN CHINA

2025-12-22T18:30:47+01:00

The main objective of this study is to examine how big data visualization can enhance the brand marketing of Hezhou Liubao Tea, a representative Chinese black tea, to increase the income of local tea farmers. Despite its unique production methods and cultural significance, Liubao Tea faces challenges in brand recognition and market expansion. Using big data tools, this research analyzes market demand, consumer behavior, and sales channel performance to identify key factors driving brand development. The methodology includes data collection from e-commerce platforms, social media, and surveys, combined with visualization tools like Tableau and Gephi to process and present the findings. Key findings show that investments in brand development, production efficiency, and market expansion significantly contribute to increased farmer income. The study highlights the potential of data driven marketing strategies to improve brand awareness, optimize sales channels, and enhance product quality, offering practical recommendations for both local and nternational market growth. This research provides insights into leveraging modern technology for sustainable development in the tea industry and rural revitalization.

THE ECONOMIC SIGNIFICANCE OF TRADITIONAL AND REGIONAL FOOD IN THE REGION OF CRETE

2025-12-22T18:30:45+01:00

Traditional foods play a key role in the economies of all countries, culture and everyday life. Crete is famous for its rich, delicious, also simple ingredients traditional dishes, based on local natural resources. The intention of the research is to identify the traditional and regional products of Crete also the economic status of its food products. The survey was carried out in 2022 with 607 respondents and responses were processed using SPSS and Excel. The results show that the consumption habits of residents at home are related to how often they choose traditional foods in restaurants. Older generations are more committed to local foods, while younger people consume them less often in restaurants. The research highlights the fact that consumption of traditional nd regional foods can contribute to the region’s economic development also it is positively correlated with emotional attachment to the region.

THE IMPACT OF VALUED MACROECONOMIC FACTORS BY TOP MANAGEMENT ON BUSINESS IN MEDIUM-SIZED INDUSTRIAL AND MEDIUM-SIZED AGRIBUSINESS ENTERPRISES

2025-12-22T18:30:44+01:00

The aim of the research was to investigate the impact of macroeconomic factors on the operations of medium-sized industrial and medium-sized agribusiness enterprises. The subject of the research was medium-sized industrial and medium-sized agribusiness enterprises. The authors conducted a survey of top management in relation to the impact of 7 macroeconomic factors. The method of comparing the results obtained from both forms of enterprise organization in the research period (2023-2025) was used. The existence of differences in the evaluation of top management in relation to the form of enterprise organization was revealed. Agribusiness enterprises had more confidence in the analyzed macroeconomic factors: exports, subsidies and the impact of banking, while industrial enterprises had more confidence in the impact of gross domestic product, employment, imports and tax breaks.

CAN RURAL AREAS BENEFIT FROM ONLINE REVIEWS? MANAGING TOURIST SENTIMENTS IN RURAL ACCOMMODATION IN OHRID (NORTH MACEDONIA)

2025-12-22T18:30:43+01:00

This paper investigates factors influencing tourist satisfaction with rural accommodation, crucial for the sustainable development of rural areas. Recognizing that accommodations are important for rural economies, this study performs a sentiment analysis. It analyzes 4,557 online reviews from tourists visiting the rural areas of the east coast of Lake Ohrid (North Macedonia). Results reveal 15 factors grouped into four clusters: ‘Facility’, ‘Surrounding’, ‘Service’, and ‘Site’. The ‘Surrounding’ cluster has the most profound impacts on tourist satisfaction, consistently generating strong positive sentiments due to the excellent natural landscape in which rural accommodations are located. The ‘Facility’ cluster generally impacts negative sentiments, while ‘Service’ displays mixed sentiments. The ‘Site’ cluster reveals partially positive and mixed but negative sentiments. Such variability suggests a need for further managerial analysis and targeted improvements. This research provides practical suggestions for managers of rural accommodation to understand tourist emotions, optimize service quality, and foster sustainable rural tourism development.

MARKET INCLUSION AND SUSTAINABLE PRACTICE IN SERBIAN AGRITOURISM

2025-12-22T18:30:41+01:00

This study examines how market integration affects the adoption of sustainable production practices among agritourist households in Serbia. Using a Propensity Score Matching approach supported by endogeneity tests, mediation analysis, and Double Machine Learning, data from 148 households were analyzed. Results show that participation in modern market channels significantly increases the use of green technologies, particularly drip irrigation, biological pest control, and crop residue management. The mediation model confirms that market integration fosters adoption partly by enhancing producers’ cognitive awareness of sustainability. Findings remain robust across different estimation methods. The study offers policy insights into promoting sustainable agritourism through support for market access and digital competencies.

PANEL DATA ANALYSIS OF THE IMPACT OF AGRICULTURAL INDICATORS ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ASPECTS: THE EXPERIENCE FROM THE BRICS COUNTRIES

2025-12-22T18:30:40+01:00

The aim of this paper is to empirically assess the influence of the most significant agricultural measures on basic economic indicators in original BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa), as well as to offer reasonable explanations for the nature of the established relations. For this purpose, two models were built: a) The Period Random Effects Model that traces their influence on GDP growth rate, and b) Two-way Random Effects Model that assesses their influence on Average income in BRICS nations. The paper determined mostly negative and statistically significant relations between mere agricultural measures and economic indicators, pointing to the conclusion that these countries are burdened by problems of law agricultural productivity, poor technological progress and low value added in their agriculture, as well as to the need for the implementation of more serious institutional, land, production, education, infrastructural and other fields of reforms in BRICS.

THE USE OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES AND IMPLEMENTING BIG DATA CONCEPT, DRONES, AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN THE AGRICULTURE - PERCEPTION OF SMALL FARMERS IN SERBIA

2025-12-22T18:30:39+01:00

This study explores the attitudes and readiness of small farmers in the Republic of Serbia toward digital transformation in agricultural production, with emphasis on the application of Big Data, drone technology, and artificial intelligence. The research implemented a quantitative survey, collecting data from 437 participants across three regions of Serbia. Descriptive statistics and Spearman’s rank correlation analysis were used to examine the correlation of demographic factors, including age, gender, education level, and geographic location, with the perceptions on using information technologies in agriculture. Results present significant interest in digital tools that support productivity and sustainability, despite limited practical experience and low levels of digital literacy. Statistically significant correlations were identified between age, education level, and geography in shaping openness toward technological adoption, while gender showed no significant correlation. Younger and more educated respondents consistently expressed stronger support for using advanced technologies, underscoring the importance of strategic government awareness programs and training initiatives.

INTERDISCIPLINARY SYNERGY OF CULTURAL HERITAGE, AGRICULTURE, AND FINANCIAL STRUCTURES IN URBAN DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY: SPLIT SUMMER FESTIVAL AS A MODEL OF INTEGRATION

2025-12-22T18:30:37+01:00

This paper examines the role of cultural festivals in sustainable urban development, focusing on the Split Summer Festival as a model of integration between cultural heritage, and tourism. The purpose is to analyze how festivals influence tourist flows, valorize local agri-food production, and contribute to economic resilience. The methodology combines quantitative analysis of overnight stay statistics (2013–2024) with qualitative secondary literature review, supported by a two-way ANOVA to test differences between festival and non-festival regions. Results confirm that festival locations achieve significantly higher growth in overnight stays and stronger links between cultural events and accommodation demand. Conclusions highlight the importance of festival-driven synergies in shaping cultural capital, economic benefits, and sustainable tourism. Recommendations include integrating small agricultural producers, diversifying accommodation, and strengthening collaborative policy frameworks. Additional data underline the growing role of rural households and agri-food products in enriching the cultural tourism experience.

MOTIVATIONAL FACTORS INFLUENCING URBAN GARDENING INTENTIONS: INSIGHTS FROM VOJVODINA (SERBIA)

2025-12-22T18:30:34+01:00

This study examines factors influencing residents’ intentions to engage in urban gardening, focusing on psychological and physical well-being and key economic, social, and demographic determinants. Data were collected from 473 residents of three cities in Vojvodina (Serbia) using a structured survey. Confirmatory factor analysis validated the motivation scale, while path modeling and regression explored relationships between motivational factors, sociodemographic characteristics, and gardening intention. All motivational factors significantly predicted intention, with psychological well-being emerging as the strongest predictor, followed by healthy food, physical well-being, community engagement, and economic benefits. Women showed higher intentions than men, while younger adults (18–24) were less motivated. Urban gardening is thus primarily driven by psychological well-being, access to healthy food, and physical well-being. Targeted programs emphasizing these benefits, supported by practical guidance and educational campaigns for younger residents, can enhance participation. Gender-inclusive and community oriented initiatives may further strengthen engagement and contribute to long-term sustainability.

THE AMOUNT, ECONOMIC VALUE AND ENVIRONMENTAL EMISSION OF CEPHAPIRIN AT DRY-OFF IN HOLSTEIN AND SIMMENTAL DAIRY COWS BY HERD SIZE

2025-12-22T18:30:27+01:00

The research aim was to quantify the use of cephapirin in dry cow therapy, to estimate the economic value and potential environmental emissions regarding the herd size. The analysis included a 307,531 test-day records from Holsteins and 383,208 from Simmental. Udder health status at the last milk recording before dry-off was classified according to SCC criteria, and the scenario assumed universal use of BDCT, 1.2 g cephapirin per cow (300 mg per quarter × 4). The estimated total amount of cephapirin was 369.0 kg in Holsteins and 459.8 kg in Simmentals. The economic cost of the application was €7.85 million in Holstein and €9.78 million in Simmental herds, with healthy cows generating the largest share of the cost due to their large numbers. The estimated environmental release was 221.4 kg for Holstein and 275.9 kg for Simmental, with PEC/PNEC ratios high above the risk threshold, RQ 4,428.41 and 5,518.19, respectively.

CONSUMER PERCEPTIONS OF GEOGRAPHICAL INDICATIONS, BRANDING, AND INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY IN THE AGRICULTURAL SECTOR

2025-12-22T18:30:33+01:00

This paper examines the role of geographical indications and branding in shaping consumer perceptions of quality in agricultural products, as well as attitudes toward intellectual property protection. A quantitative survey was conducted through an online questionnaire in September 2025, involving 214 respondents from Serbia. Socio demographic variables such as gender, age, education, place of residence, and frequency of agricultural product consumption were considered to account for differences in consumer attitudes. The results reveal generally low levels of support for geographical indications, branding, and intellectual property protection in agriculture, with mean values consistently below 3 across all measurement scales (ranging from 2.37 to 2.71). However, statistical test results showed that the frequency of consumption significantly influences perceptions of branding, while education and place of residence do not exert a significant effect. These findings provide valuable insights for producers and policymakers in strengthening branding strategies, safeguarding traditional products, and fostering sustainable rural development.

GENERATION Z’s ATTITUDES TOWARD AGRO-ENTREPRENEURSHIP: EXAMINING MOTIVATIONS, CHALLENGES, AND FUTURE PERSPECTIVES

2025-12-22T18:30:32+01:00

This paper examines Generation Z attitudes toward agro-entrepreneurship, with particular emphasis on their motivation, perceived challenges, and perspectives on the future of agro-based business ventures. A structured questionnaire was used as the primary data collection instrument, targeting both rural and urban members of Generation Z. Using a snowball sampling method, 263 respondents participated in research during October 2025. Statistical analyses, including Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis H tests, revealed that urban members of Generation Z, those from agricultural households, and those with personal agricultural experience exhibit higher otivation, perceive fewer barriers, and express more positive attitudes, highlighting the role of contextual and experiential factors in shaping agro-entrepreneurial engagement. These findings have practical and theoretical significance, providing insights for policymakers and educators to design targeted support programs, promote youth participation in agro-business, and foster sustainable rural development through entrepreneurship initiatives.

SUBJECTIVE WELL-BEING (SWB) AS A DETERMINANT OF RURAL SPA TOURISM DEVELOPMENT: ECONOMIC AND ENTREPRENEURIAL PERSPECTIVES

2025-12-22T18:30:28+01:00

Rural spa tourism represents a vital segment of the rural economy, combining health, recreation, and entrepreneurship within natural environments. This study explores the economic relevance of Subjective Well-Being (SWB) as a determinant of rural spa tourism development. Data were collected from 713 foreign visitors across four rural spa destinations in Central and Southeastern Europe. The analysis integrates economic, psychological, and managerial dimensions, examining how perceived well-being affects visitors’ spending, length of stay, and support for local entrepreneurship. Results reveal that higher levels of SWB are positively associated with greater consumption of wellness services, stronger loyalty intentions, and higher appreciation of local resources. Moreover, visitors reporting higher well-being tend to support small-scale rural businesses and locally sourced products, strengthening the socio-economic resilience of spa destinations. These findings suggest that SWB functions as both a personal recovery indicator and an economic stimulus, reinforcing the link between wellness experiences and sustainable rural development. The study contributes to understanding the role of well-being economics in tourism policy and destination management.

DECISION SUPPORT FOR THE SELECTION OF TABLE EGG SUPPLIERS

2025-12-22T18:30:29+01:00

In the paper, for the purpose of selecting a supplier of table eggs in an agribusiness company, a multi-criteria decision-making method was applied. Through expert opinion, ten given criteria were evaluated using the fuzzy variant of the Simple Weight Calculation (SiWeC) method, and the selection itself was made using the COmpromise Ranking from Alternative Solutions (CORASO) method. The results show that the best rated criterion is „product quality”, while the choice for the best supplier went to the first supplier. The research confirms a successful and systematic approach in the application of the used method, as well as a literary contribution in the complex situation of supplier selection. In future research, it is necessary to expand the selection model in the analyzed area, as well as to include a larger number of decision makers and evaluation criteria. Also, it is necessary to continue improving the existing research method.

RURAL TOURISM THROUGH THE LENS OF INSTAGRAM USERS

2025-12-22T18:30:25+01:00

Rural tourism is a form of tourism that takes place in a rural environment and in which the tangible and intangible culture of the destination is experienced. Along with the growing interest of tourists in these elements, the attractiveness of rural tourism and its representation in Instagram posts is also increasing. The purpose of this research is to evaluate trends in rural tourism by analyzing Instagram images as a useful information base. The key methodological tool in research is image content analysis. The results of the research made it possible to draw conclusions about the most represented rural tourism destinations, key attractions and activities, gender specificities of participants in rural tourism, as well as its pronounced seasonality. In particular, the research led to the identification of education as an emerging activity in rural tourism. The research results can be useful for management organizations, rural communities, and tourism marketers. At the same time, the research emphasizes the usability of user-generated images on social media platforms in researching trends in the tourism market.

AI-DRIVEN DAIRY FARMING: A CASE STUDY OF TECHNOLOGICAL ADOPTION AND ORGANIZATIONAL ADAPTATION IN A CZECH SME

2025-12-22T18:30:48+01:00

This paper analyzes the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and smart technologies in dairy cattle farming through a case study of the Czech SME Agrosoft. The study assesses how AI-based management systems affect operational efficiency, animal welfare, and environmental sustainability, and identifies challenges in their implementation. It focuses on automated milking, thermal imaging for health monitoring, and IoT-supported environmental control. A qualitative approach was applied, combining semi structured interviews with developers and implementation specialists with an analysis of internal documentation. The findings show that AI enables earlier detection of health issues, more efficient feeding and barn-climate control, and reduced labor demands, contributing to improved herd welfare and lower operating costs. At the same time, the research highlights organizational barriers, especially the need for staff training and gradual workflow adaptation. The paper concludes that AI can significantly advance sustainable, welfare-oriented livestock farming, provided that farms ensure sufficient technological readiness and human-centered change management.

CONSUMER BEHAVIOR IN THE SOURDOUGH BREAD MARKET: ECONOMIC AND MARKETING FACTORS AS DETERMINANTS OF PURCHASE

2025-12-22T18:30:38+01:00

Sourdough bread has been gaining popularity among consumers, driven by an increasing interest in healthier dietary choices. Experts in food technology, nutrition, medicine, and gastronomy emphasize the numerous health benefits associated with its consumption, including improved digestion and a lower glycemic index. The aim of this study was to segment consumers using cluster analysis based on their attitudes and habits related to sourdough bread consumption. Four distinct consumer clusters were identified, each characterized by different perceptions of the product. The second part of the analysis examined the influence of economic and marketing factors on consumer attitudes, while the socio-demographic analysis provided insights into dietary habits and bread consumption patterns. The results contribute to a deeper understanding of consumer behavior and can serve as a foundation for the development of targeted marketing strategies, as well as for improving sourdough bread production and promotion. This research highlights the importance of aligning food production with consumer expectations and the growing demand for nutritionally beneficial products.

A BIBLIOMETRIC MAPPING OF RESEARCH TRENDS AND DIRECTIONS ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN INFRASTRUCTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT

2025-12-22T18:30:24+01:00

This paper explores how infrastructure is connected to rural development by analysing trends in academic research over the past three decades. Infrastructure is essential for improving the quality of life and supporting economic growth in rural areas. As rural regions often face challenges like isolation, limited services and population decline, developing adequate infrastructure is seen as a key solution. To better understand how this topic has been studied, the research uses a bibliometric method based on articles indexed in the Web of Science™ Core Collection. A total of 166 publications from 1993 to 2025 were analysed using the VOSviewer software. Three main clusters were identified: Socio-political dimensions of rural infrastructure, Sustainable transformation and rural development, Economic performance and public infrastructure. The paper highlights the increasing international interest in these topics, with strong contributions from countries like China, the United States and Romania, but still international collaboration remains modest.