Journal of Agricultural Economics & Development

Research Article-en Agricultural Economics

Rural-Urban Disparities in Animal-Source Food Demand and Welfare Losses during COVID-19 in Iran: A QUAIDS Approach

A. Karbasi; S. Jalalian

Volume 39, Issue 2 , July 2025, Pages 138-117

https://doi.org/10.22067/jead.2025.88095.1267

Abstract

AbstractThe COVID-19 pandemic presented major global challenges, including a decline in per capita income growth across all income groups in 2020. The protein sector, particularly Animal-Source Foods (ASF) faced increased pressure on both supply and demand, resulting in price volatility. This study examines ... Read More

Research Article-en Agricultural Economics

Impact of Agricultural Policies on Smallholders’ Food insecurity Resilience in Iran: Evidence from Iran

Sh. Zarif Moradin; M. Daneshvar Kakhki; M. Sabouhi Sabouni

Volume 39, Issue 2 , July 2025, Pages 149-139

https://doi.org/10.22067/jead.2025.91359.1322

Abstract

AbstractOne of the essential goals of societies, primarily developing and underdeveloped countries, is to eradicate poverty and achieve sustainable development. As vulnerable individuals in many communities’ face growing economic, environmental, and political challenges, proactive crisis management ... Read More

Research Article-en Agricultural Economics

Digital Agricultural Marketing: Determinants of Consumer Engagement Intentions in Urmia, Iran

M. Molaei; M. Rashidghalam; B. Hosseinpour

Volume 39, Issue 2 , July 2025, Pages 164-151

https://doi.org/10.22067/jead.2025.91586.1325

Abstract

Abstract The importance of understanding consumer engagement with digital marketing in agriculture is highlighted by the rapid evolution of digital platforms, which are transforming traditional marketing approaches. This study investigates the factors influencing consumer intentions to engage with digital ... Read More

Research Article-en Agricultural Economics

Simultaneous Evaluation of Technical Efficiency and Production Risk of Rice Paddy Fields

H. Kazmi Shabanzade Aflaki; O. Javanbakht; Kh. Alefi

Volume 39, Issue 2 , July 2025, Pages 180-165

https://doi.org/10.22067/jead.2025.91636.1327

Abstract

AbstractAgricultural activities are inherently riskier than other types of production and are often accompanied by inefficiencies. Therefore, studying risk and inefficiency simultaneously can help enhance productivity. The statistical population in this study consisted of rice farmers in Rasht County. ... Read More AbstractAgricultural activities are inherently riskier than other types of production and are often accompanied by inefficiencies. Therefore, studying risk and inefficiency simultaneously can help enhance productivity. The statistical population in this study consisted of rice farmers in Rasht County. Based on data from the Agricultural Jihad Organization of Guilan province (2016), the total number of farmers at the time of the study was 38,763. Using Cochran’s formula, the required sample size was calculated to be 226, representing approximately 58 percent of the population. The questionnaire consisted of two parts: one focusing on the inputs used in the rice production process, and the other on the socio-economic characteristics of farmers and their farms. To simultaneously evaluate the technical efficiency and production risk of rice farmers in Rasht County in 2018, a generalized Stochastic Frontier Production (SFP) model with flexible risk properties was employed. The results of estimating production risk function showed that (i) rice production was significantly affected by land, seed and labour inputs; (ii) land, water, age, and gender variables were risk-increasing factors; (iii) seed, herbicides, machinery, farmer’s education, family size, and farming experience were risk-reducing inputs; (iv) seed, labour, membership in the agricultural cooperatives and insurance increased technical inefficiency; and (v) nitrogen fertilizer, water, gender, experience, and participation in educational and promotional programs reduce technical inefficiency in the studied area. The results of estimating technical efficiency showed that the average technical efficiency of the rice paddy field was 93.47 percent and 96.27 percent with and without a risk component, respectively. Therefore, it is clear that estimating the model without a risk component leads to biased results of technical efficiency. In conclusion, it is recommended that the risk component be considered when measuring the technical efficiency of paddy fields to achieve sound risk management and highly efficient production.

Research Article-en Agricultural Economics

Determining the Optimal Cropping Pattern with Emphasis on the Interaction between Risk and Profitability: Farmlands of Dehgolan Plain

M. Ghasabi; M. Haji-Rahimi; H. Ghaderzadeh; R. Shankayi

Volume 39, Issue 2 , July 2025, Pages 192-181

https://doi.org/10.22067/jead.2024.90686.1312

Abstract

Abstract Risk is an undeniable factor in agricultural activities, and its neglect can lead to inefficient resource allocation in the sector. Various theories and mathematical programming models have been developed to assist decision-making in cropping pattern management under risk conditions. This study ... Read More

Research Article-en Agricultural Economics

Analyzing Food Consumption Patterns in Rural Areas of Iran: Identifying Provinces with Standard and Homogeneous Consumption

M. Shabanzadeh-Khoshrody

Volume 39, Issue 2 , July 2025, Pages 210-193

https://doi.org/10.22067/jead.2025.92120.1333

Abstract

Investigating food consumption patterns in rural areas of Iran is necessary to understand the state of food security and social health in the country. Identifying provinces with standard and homogeneous consumption patterns not only helps improve planning to meet food needs, but also can lead to the ... Read More Investigating food consumption patterns in rural areas of Iran is necessary to understand the state of food security and social health in the country. Identifying provinces with standard and homogeneous consumption patterns not only helps improve planning to meet food needs, but also can lead to the formulation of appropriate and effective policies to address issues related to nutrition and public health. This study examined: (i) the current food consumption patterns in rural areas of Iran in 2023, compared to the standard dietary pattern; (ii) the ranking of provinces based on the similarity of their dietary patterns to the standard; (iii) the identification of similar food consumption patterns across rural regions in different provinces; and (iv) the relationship between food consumption patterns and the infrastructural, economic, and social indicators of the provinces. The methodology of this study includes statistical analysis tools, such as TOPSIS method and k-means clustering technique. The results showed that the current dietary pattern of households in rural areas of Iran mainly consists of various types of cereals, providing more than 60% of an adult's daily calorie intake. Comparing, global scale, cereals provide 50% of daily calories intake, averagely, varying from 30% to 55% and 70% in high, middle, and low-income societies, respectively. We found that food consumption in rural areas of Iran does not necessarily align with the standard pattern, meaning 28.4% lower food items than required in the standard basket, and 16% less than standard energy requirements. For instance, the consumption of bread was more than recommended level while the share of dairy products, fruits, and red meat, was 64.4%, 52.1%, and 50% lower than the recommended amount, respectively. While the dietary patterns in rural areas of six provinces - Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari, Markazi, Isfahan, Hamedan, Zanjan, and Mazandaran - satisfied the standard dietary. The converse evidence was observed for Hormozgan, Semnan, Kerman, North Khorasan, Ilam, and Sistan-Baluchestan. Between comparison of provinces confirmed (i) a heterogenous consumption pattern, mostly, dominated by five types of behavioral patterns; (ii) non-significant effect between consumption pattern and geographical distribution; (iii) a more desirable consumption pattern depending on more suitable infrastructure, economic, and social indicators. To deal with the undesirable consequences of calorie shortage and non-standard consumption pattern, this study suggests a comprehensive plan regulating supportive policies, public awareness, sustainable agriculture, and educational programs about nutrition and market access. Nutrition in rural regions is influenced by economic, regional, social, cultural, and individual factors, and improving dietary health necessitates addressing these interconnected elements.

Analysis of Factors Affecting Consumer Payment Preferences for Organic Agricultural Products: Application of Structural Equation Modeling

Volume 33, Issue 4 , January 2020, , Pages 339-350

https://doi.org/10.22067/jead2.v33i4.76582

Abstract

Introduction: The environmental impacts of pesticides, genetically modified organisms and other chemicals used to increase agricultural production have raised consumers' concerns about the quality and safety of agricultural products. And now, with the increase of environmental awareness, it has criticized ... Read More Introduction: The environmental impacts of pesticides, genetically modified organisms and other chemicals used to increase agricultural production have raised consumers' concerns about the quality and safety of agricultural products. And now, with the increase of environmental awareness, it has criticized modern agricultural activities. These factors have encouraged consumers to consume organic agricultural products. Way of producing the organic products can increase the production costs and, finally, increase the total price of these products. So, consumers should pay more for these products than the inorganic ones. In spite of higher prices of these products, consumers are increasingly tending to consume organic products. So that, consumers tend to pay more for better and more organic and safe agricultural products. Several factors influence the consumer payment preferences for organic products. In this study, these factors are classified into four groups and their impacts on consumer preferences are examined.Materials and Methods: This study has used the Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) is a powerful collection of multivariate analysis techniques, which specifies the relationships between variables through the use of two main sets of models: Measurement model and Structural model. Measurement model tests the accuracy of proposed measurements by assessing relationships between latent variables and their respective indicators. The structural model drives the assessment of the hypothesized relationships between the latent variables, which allow testing the statistical hypotheses for the study. Additionally, SEM considers the modeling of interactions, nonlinearities, correlated independents, measurement error, correlated error terms, and multiple latent independents that each one is measured by multiple indicators. Unlike conventional analysis, SEM allows the inclusion of latent variables into the analysis and it is not limited to relationships among observed variables and constructs. It allows the study to measure any combination of relationships by examining a series of dependent relationships simultaneously while considering potential errors of measurement among all variables. SEM has several advantages over conventional analysis, including greater flexibility regarding assumptions (particularly allowing interpretation even in the face of multicollinearity). SEM allows the use of confirmatory factor analysis to reduce measurement error by testing multiple indicators per latent variable while offering superior model visualization through its graphical modeling interface. Structural Equation Modeling include six steps (data collection, model specification, identification, estimation, evaluation and modification). In the present study, the variables including marketing factors, awareness and knowledge, demographic characteristics and attitudes towards organic products are considered as latent variables that the relationship of these variables with the payment preferences is investigated. In order to collect required data, a researcher-made questionnaire and simple random sampling method has been used.Results and Discussion: Results indicate that given the significance of factor loadings, the indicators (observed variables) such as packaging, brand, advertising, discounts and shopping incentives, familiarity with different types of products, way to get information, familiarity with organic agricultural product stores have the required accuracy to measure latent variables. Regarding the model fitting indexes and being model values in the acceptable range, we can say that the measurement and structural models fit well with the data. The results of structural model and hypothesis testing show that awareness and knowledge, demographic characteristics, attitude towards organic products have a significant effect (0.27, 0.59 and 0.21, respectively) on consumer payments preferences. In other words, increasing the awareness of consumer about organic products, increasing household size and income, the positive attitude of consumers towards the characteristics of organic products would increase consumer payments preferences. Also, marketing factors have a significant effect (0.68) on the attitude toward organic products. So that, marketing factors including packaging, brand, advertising and discounts and shopping incentives have a positive effect on the attitude toward organic products. Therefore, hypotheses 2 through 5 are supported.Conclusion: The Findings indicate that increasing the awareness of consumer about organic agricultural products, increasing household size and income, the positive attitude of consumers towards the characteristics of organic agricultural products will increase consumer payments preferences. Therefore, it is suggested that the relevant authorities take serious action to inform about the properties and nutritional value of organic agricultural products, the differences in the labels of food products, and the existing stores supplying of organic products. Also, it is recommended that the numbers of organic supply stores are boosted, especially in areas where high-income people live.

Vulnerability assessment to Drought in Various Provinces, approach towards risk management in the country

Volume 29, Issue 4 , January 2016, , Pages 359-373

https://doi.org/10.22067/jead2.v29i4.47932

Abstract

Introduction: The water crisis is one of the main challenges of the current century. Drought is one of the most costly natural disasters in Iran. During the past 40 years, our country has experienced 27 droughts. It seems a necessary step to deal with the consequences of drought and reducing its effects, ... Read More Introduction: The water crisis is one of the main challenges of the current century. Drought is one of the most costly natural disasters in Iran. During the past 40 years, our country has experienced 27 droughts. It seems a necessary step to deal with the consequences of drought and reducing its effects, thorough understanding and knowledge of each region's vulnerability, which is neglected in our country, unfortunately. It is necessary to study the influencing factors in determining vulnerability and makes it visible. On the other hand, due to the continuing drought conditions intensified in recent years and its impact on different economic sectors, especially the agricultural sector in the country need to assess vulnerability to drought in the country will double. Materials and Methods: Fuzzy AHP method based on the concept of fuzzy sets introduced by LotfeiZadeh. There are several ways to use fuzzy theory and hierarchical structure proposed merger. Cheng in 1996 suggested a new approach to solve problems using Fuzzy AHP calibration values within the membership and (TFNs). Extent Analysis Method proposed by Chang is one of the common ways to solve problems. In this study, we developed a method based on fuzzy analytic hierarchy Chang that has been developed by Zhu et al. and Van Alhag. Results and Discussion: Vulnerability to drought conditions is determined by factors such as economic, social and physical sensitivity to the damaging effects of drought increases. This study is designed in the hierarchy. The purpose of this study is assessing the vulnerability of the country to drought. Vulnerability of this study includes economic vulnerability, social vulnerability and physical vulnerability. Economic vulnerability to drought indicates that the economy is vulnerable to external shocks due to drought and the inability of the economy to withstand the effects of the event and recover the situation. Social vulnerability determines the capacity to deal with drought in the community and reflect the effects of drought on people's ability to cope with the event. The physical vulnerability is related to the characteristics and the structure of society, infrastructure and services that are the result of the damage caused by drought. In the present study, the economic dimension of vulnerability, including GDP per capita, value added in agriculture, value added in industry and the impact of drought on the GDP. Under the criteria of social vulnerability, population density, population growth, the rate of literacy, vulnerable populations, the costs of health and safety and the impact of drought on employment were considered. The physical dimensions of vulnerability include the rate of irrigated land and road density since the objective of this study was to assess vulnerability to drought in various provinces of the country, the required data for all provinces except for Alborz province was collected in 1391 from intelligence sources. To determine the importance of different dimensions of vulnerability as well as the sub-phase in each dimension, the questionnaire was used for paired comparisons. As for the tens of experts, specialists and professionals who have expertise using the Delphi method is incorporated. In general, the importance of physical vulnerability is more than economic and social vulnerability. On the other hand, according to the results the economic and social vulnerability is important, too. The results of this study showed that the importance of the physical vulnerability was more than the economic and social vulnerability and economic vulnerability and social importance were the same. In the economic vulnerability sub-criteria of per capita GDP, in the social vulnerability sub-criteria of population density and in the physical vulnerability sub-criteria of road density have the most importance. These findings may reflect the fact that when drought occurs, access to infrastructure, services and markets can considerably reduce the harmful effects of drought. According to the results, Semnan, Tehran and Gilan provinces jointly are economically vulnerable. On the other hand, in terms of criteria for social vulnerability, provinces of Fars, Khuzestan and Gilan were the most social vulnerable and Isfahan, Kermanshah and Ilam are the least vulnerable. Also, according to the results the province of Khuzestan, Fars and Khorasan were the most; and Yazd, Bushehr and Kohgiluyeh Boyer were the least physical vulnerability. Conclusion: In this study, in order to assess vulnerability to drought in various provinces, , after determining the hierarchy and collect relevant data, the importance of each criteria and sub-criteria were determined. In order to determine the importance of different aspects of vulnerability (the economic, social and physical) Fuzzy AHP method was used in each dimension. According to the results of this study, the province of Khuzestan, Fars and Khorasan are the most and Yazd, Bushehr and Kohgiluyeh Boyer were the least physical vulnerability. Since different provinces ‌have significant differences in vulnerability to drought and vulnerability in various aspects of economic, social and physical, in order to achieve drought management based on risk management, recommended in policy and planning make attention the effects of drought in the various provinces.

Market Power and Risk of Price Uncertainty (A Case Study of Date Market)

Volume 30, Issue 2 , July 2016, , Pages 107-116

https://doi.org/10.22067/jead2.v30i2.50006

Abstract

Date is as one of the important items of the agricultural production in Iran as Iran's share of global production was 14.1% in 2012 and rank of production increased to second in the world too. In recent years, price uncertainty in date market has increased due to changes in government policies on date ... Read More

Factors Effecting Sustainability of Agriculture Practices in Jiroft County (Case Study: Onion, Potato and Tomato)

Volume 25, Issue 4 , January 2012

https://doi.org/10.22067/jead2.v0i0.12185

Abstract

AbstractIn recent decades, more consumption of agricultural inputs led to growth in agricultural products in the world. However, problems occurred due to the lack of attention to environmental issues and risks of excessive consumption of chemicals on human health become a concern for people and policy ... Read More AbstractIn recent decades, more consumption of agricultural inputs led to growth in agricultural products in the world. However, problems occurred due to the lack of attention to environmental issues and risks of excessive consumption of chemicals on human health become a concern for people and policy makers. To solve the problem, sustainable agriculture has been considering by authorities. This study aimed at assessing the level of sustainability in some agricultural products. Identification of factors that influence sustainability in the study products was another aim of this study. The study was conducted in 2008-2009. The township of Jiroft was selected for this study, due to economic importance of agriculture in this region. The study concentrated on three products of tomato, potato and onion that play important role in the food security of the region. The statistical population of the study included all onions, potatoes and tomatoes growers (N=1320). Using the Cochran's formula, sample size was measured at 197 persons. Using the stratified random sampling method, the study interviewees were selected. The reliability of the questionnaire was evaluated by Cronbach's alpha's coefficient at 0.75. Content validity was defined using a panel of expert. According to the results, levels of sustainability for 53.2 percent of the study samples were lower than their average level, while 47.2 percent had higher levels. Results of regression model presented that the variables of educational level, knowledge of sustainable agriculture, the number of family labor force, growers’ participation in social activities, the system of private property and livestock- cultivation system have a significant positive impact on the sustainability. The only variable of the rate of cultivation presented a negative impact on the agricultural sustainability. The study recommends holding appropriate extension classes accordance to the level of growers ‘education.

Study of Relationships between Carbon Dioxide Emissions and GDP Per Capita Based on Panel Data

Volume 25, Issue 4 , January 2012

https://doi.org/10.22067/jead2.v0i0.12187

Abstract

AbstractThis study investigates casual relationship between CO2 emission and gross domestic product per capita in five different country groups, using cross- country data for the period 1960-2007. To achieve the purpose, the co- integration test and error correction models are applied. Results confirm ... Read More

Research Article

Assessment of the effects of Covid-19 pandemic in the analysis of demand for livestock products using switching regression framework

mahdi pendar; mohammad rezvani; eyed Safdar Hosseini; Hamed Rafiee

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 15 February 2025

https://doi.org/10.22067/jead.2025.90323.1303

Abstract

IntroductionThe economy of countries are always exposed to shocks, including the Covid-19 pandemic, which cause various problems. The epidemic of Covid-19 has had various effects and consequences in various sectors, including the agricultural sector. So that the decrease in income and production and ... Read More IntroductionThe economy of countries are always exposed to shocks, including the Covid-19 pandemic, which cause various problems. The epidemic of Covid-19 has had various effects and consequences in various sectors, including the agricultural sector. So that the decrease in income and production and the loss of customers according to health quarantines and border closures have severely affected the business of farmers and created many problems for activists of various sectors of the agriculture. One of the most important effects of the Covid-19 pandemic is the reduction of economic growth worldwide. This issue has resulted in to an increase in unemployment and a decrease in the people's purchasing power in the community and a decrease in demand. According to the impact of the covid-19 pandemic on food demand as a result of disorder in the supply chain and income impulses, the purpose of this research is to investigate the existence of a structural failure in the preferences of livestock products (red meat, chicken, eggs and milk) of Iranian consumers using the Quadratic almost ideal demand system and the switching regression framework developed by Ohtani & Katayama (1986) in the period of spring 2015 to winter 2022.Materials and MethodsNonparametric and parametric approaches are used to investigate structural failure in consumer preferences. The parametric approaches and Quadratic almost ideal demand system is employed to assess the structural failure. The switching regression framework proposed by Ohtani and Katayama (1986) is utilized to model structural changes in preferences. In fact, a time transition function enters the demand system. Based on the characteristics of demand in the literature of structural changes, Bewley likelihood-ratio test is applied to select an appropriate model.In order to evaluate the structural failure and calculate the price and income elasticities, the price and per capita consumption data of livestock products are needed, and in this research, seasonal time series data for the period of spring 2015 to winter 2022 have been used. The information related to the price of livestock products was obtained from the Joint Stock Company of the Support of Livestock Affairs. To get the per capita consumption, first, the information on the amount of production of red meat, chicken, milk, and eggs was received from the joint stock company for livestock affairs. Then, by summing the amount of production and the amount of import of red meat, chicken, milk and eggs and deducting the amount of export from the said amount and dividing it by the population of the country, the amount of consumption per capita was calculated. The amount of export and import of red meat, chicken, milk and eggs is taken from the export and import report of the Ministry of Agriculture (Jihad), which is published monthly. Results and DiscussionIn order to estimate the system equations, one of the equations was removed and other ones were solved based the previous one, followed by estimation. Accordingly, the equation related to the removed milk and the QAIDS with 33 parameters and three equations including those related to red meat, chicken and egg were estimated using the maximum likelihood estimator non-linearly. The results show the Based on the statistics of log-likelihood and DW the existence of a gradual structural failure as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. Comparing the statistics of Bewley likelihood ratio test calculated for an unlimited QAIDS (with structural failure) and a limited one (without structural failure) with a critical χ^2 value with degrees of freedom of nine at the probability level of 5% indicates that the unlimited QAIDS is selected as the appropriate functional one. Also, the results show that after the Covid-19 epidemic, the price of red meat and chicken has increased dramatically. Considering the high elasticity of the price of red meat, chicken and eggs after the Covid-19 epidemic, it is suggested that the government use price tools to support consumers. ConclusionDue to the high cross-elasticity coefficients of demand for red meat, chicken and eggs after the Covid-19 pandemic, it can be expected that a change in the price of one of the red meat, chicken and egg products will significantly change the demand for the other product. slow, therefore, in the application of optimal demand management and consumption pattern planning, the use of substitute product price policies can be useful.Keywords: Change of Preference, quadratic almost ideal demand system, structural failure

Research Article

"Factors Affecting the Development of Entrepreneurship in Rural Areas: A Case Study of Hamoun County."

hasan Mehmandoost; Alireza Sargazi; Alireza Keikha; Saman Ziaee; Alireza sani heidari

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 01 March 2025

https://doi.org/10.22067/jead.2025.90314.1302

Abstract

The research investigates the capacities and factors influencing the development of entrepreneurship in rural areas of Hamoun County. Given the significance of entrepreneurship in generating employment, reducing poverty, and enhancing the quality of life in rural regions, identifying and analyzing key ... Read More The research investigates the capacities and factors influencing the development of entrepreneurship in rural areas of Hamoun County. Given the significance of entrepreneurship in generating employment, reducing poverty, and enhancing the quality of life in rural regions, identifying and analyzing key factors in this domain is essential. The study employed stratified random sampling, involving 278 entrepreneurs and individuals active in rural business sectors. The influential factors on entrepreneurship development were categorized into six main dimensions: human and individual factors, infrastructural, cultural, economic, and social. Data analysis utilized factor analysis and ordered logit modeling. The results from the factor analysis indicated that "government support and subsidies for production," "income," and "diversification of rural products" significantly contribute to the economic dimension of rural entrepreneurship development. In terms of cultural and social aspects, factors such as "experience," "consultation and support services," "awareness level," and "interest in village improvement" played a crucial role. For infrastructural factors, "access to services and facilities" and "access to a dynamic rural environment" were found to be pivotal in explaining overall variance. Lastly, individual factors like "motivation," "education," "psychological resilience," and "management creativity" were identified as significant contributors to this dimension. Additionally, the results from the ordered logit model revealed that among the influencing factors and barriers to entrepreneurship development, economic, cultural and social, institutional and educational, as well as infrastructural factors had a significant positive effect. Conversely, economic barriers and social obstacles negatively impacted the likelihood of individuals achieving high levels of entrepreneurial motivation. This research provides critical insights for policymakers, suggesting that they should prioritize determining factors for rural entrepreneurship development in their programs. Furthermore, it is recommended that policymakers reduce barriers to rural entrepreneurship and investment risks through subsidized support, low-interest loans, and micro-insurance funds.This research investigates the capacities and factors influencing entrepreneurship development in the rural areas of Hamun County. Given the importance of entrepreneurship in creating employment, reducing poverty, and improving the quality of life in rural regions, identifying and analyzing key factors in this context is essential. The significance of rural entrepreneurship lies not only in its potential to stimulate local economies but also in its ability to foster social cohesion and community development. As highlighted by Petrin (1992), entrepreneurship serves as a central force for economic growth in rural areas, and without it, other developmental efforts may prove ineffective. Thus, understanding the dynamics of rural entrepreneurship is crucial for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to enhance the livelihoods of rural communities. In light of the challenges and opportunities present in rural entrepreneurship, this article aims to identify effective factors influencing entrepreneurial development while reviewing existing literature. By categorizing these factors into human and individual, infrastructural, cultural, economic, and social dimensions, the study seeks to provide a comprehensive analysis that can inform future initiatives aimed at strengthening entrepreneurship in these areas. The findings are expected to offer practical recommendations for enhancing the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Hamun County. Materials and MethodsThe present study utilized a stratified random sampling method, involving 278 entrepreneurs and individuals active in rural business sectors. The research categorized influential factors into six primary groups: human and individual factors, infrastructural factors, cultural factors, economic factors, and social factors. Data analysis was conducted using Stata and Excel software to model relationships among these variables effectively. This structured approach allows for a nuanced understanding of how different factors contribute to or hinder entrepreneurial development in rural contexts. Results and DiscussionThe results indicate that "government support and subsidies for production," "income," and "diversification of rural products" play significant roles in explaining and influencing entrepreneurial behavior from an economic development perspective. In terms of cultural and social aspects, "experience," "consultation and support services," "awareness levels," and "interest in village improvement" were found to have substantial impacts on entrepreneurial behavior. From an infrastructural standpoint, "access to services and facilities" along with "access to a dynamic rural environment" emerged as critical determinants explaining the variance among extracted factors. Furthermore, regarding individual aspects of entrepreneurial development, findings revealed that "motivation," "education," "psychological resilience," and "management creativity" significantly contribute to explaining variations in behavior among entrepreneurs. The results indicated that among various influencing factors on entrepreneurship development, economic factors, cultural and social factors, institutional and educational factors, as well as infrastructural factors had positive and significant effects on the likelihood of individuals achieving high levels of entrepreneurial motivation. ConclusionAmong the identified indicators, government support and subsidies for production had a more substantial impact on income levels while diversification of rural products significantly influenced entrepreneurial behavior from an economic development perspective. In terms of cultural and social dimensions, experience, consultation services, awareness levels, and interest in village improvement were crucial for explaining variations in entrepreneurial behavior. From an infrastructural perspective, access to services and facilities alongside access to a dynamic rural environment played a decisive role in explaining the variance among extracted factors. Finally, individual development aspects revealed that motivation, education, psychological resilience, and management creativity significantly contributed to variations in behavior among entrepreneurs. The findings suggest that within the studied villages—specifically Mohammadabad, Ali Akbar Town, Dek Dehmardeh Town, Sanjoli Town, Mir Town, Bandei Town, and Kermani—there are ideal conditions for entrepreneurship compared to other assessed villages. Furthermore, using an ordered logit model revealed that economic indicators along with cultural-social factors significantly influence individuals' motivations for entrepreneurship. This expanded introduction provides a comprehensive overview of your research topic while highlighting its significance within the broader context of rural entrepreneurship development.Keywords: Entrepreneurship Development, Factor Analysis, Ordered Logit, Rural Areas, Hamun County

Research Article

Designing an economic model for the development of wheat seed control and certification with the integrated approach of Grounded Theory and Analysis of Network Processing

Masomeh bahadori; Bita Rahimi Badr; Alireza Nikouei; Rooya Eshraghi Samani

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 08 March 2025

https://doi.org/10.22067/jead.2025.90404.1306

Abstract

Extended AbstractThe seed control and certification process is considered as a key tool to confirm the quality of the produced seeds. Considering the unique position of wheat in the agricultural and consumption system of the country, this process plays a special role in the sustainability of healthy ... Read More Extended AbstractThe seed control and certification process is considered as a key tool to confirm the quality of the produced seeds. Considering the unique position of wheat in the agricultural and consumption system of the country, this process plays a special role in the sustainability of healthy seed production and food security. The present study investigated factors affecting the development of the wheat seed control system and identified the most important components affecting it with the aim of designing a conceptual model.The current research used the grounded theory, and analytic network process. The results of the semi-structured interview in the qualitative stage of 20 cereal seed experts led to the identification of 47 concepts, 11 core categories and four broad categories in the form of six core classes of the paradigm model.In the following, a targeted sample was formed to perform pairwise comparisons with eight members of the academic staff specializing in seed control. The validity and reliability of the research was evaluated at the optimal level. Regarding the semantic interpretation of the conceptual model, regulatory factors and government support policies were identified as solutions with positive consequences, improving the quality of wheat seeds and the stability of the seed market.Moreover, the results showed that the quality of seed kernels and balancing the sale price of healthy seeds were more important than the costs of seed production among the components of technical and economic criteria. In addition, the ranking of seed producing units for providing incentive facilities in the top units and supporting the entry of knowledge-based companies in the supply of seed production were among the strategies developed for the development of this process.IntroductionThe seed industry is a growing industry in the world, and the role of processed seeds in increasing the production performance is undeniable. Due to the population growth, the importance of achieving food security is increasing. Healthy seed is one of the important factors in the development of agricultural production. Although agricultural production systems have increased their production, it does not seem to be enough, though. The basic problems of the seed market and insufficient supply of seeds required by farmers have made it necessary to identify samples of seed quality development. The current research was the first research at the national level dealing with the design of a conceptual model for the development of control and certification of wheat seeds using the grounded theory method and prioritization of effective factors.Materials and MethodsThis research had a fundamental-applicative goal and was applied in two stages. In the first stage, after designing the interview questions, the grounded theory was carried out in three stages of open, central, and selective coding using a systematic approach in order to design a conceptual model. After designing the paradigm model and identifying the factors affecting the development of seed control and certification, the prioritization of the components was done including technical, social, economic and structural criteria using analytic network process.Results and DiscussionAfter analyzing the interviews, 140 initial codes were identified and the initial codes were reduced to 94 and then to 47 concepts. In the following parts, 11 core categories including processed seed production standards, laws and regulations, environmental factors, regulatory factors, equipment and technology, stability in the seed market, government support policies, human factors, wheat seed quality, attitude and awareness, and economic infrastructure were identified. The results of prioritization among the four effective criteria on the development of seed certification indicated that the technical criterion was more important than the other three criteria. In terms of the prioritization of the components, the quality of the seed kernel having a weight of 0.49, the performance of the responsible expert having a weight of 0.44, the cost of producing processed seeds having a weight of 0.39 were the first priority of technical, social, and economic criteria. Applying the ranking of production units with a weight of 0.57 and making the seed market competitive with a weight of 0.26 were more important than other components of structural criteria.ConclusionAccording to the results of this study, and the first priority of the technical criterion, it is suggested to monitor the quality of seed kernels and select appropriate farm inspectors. Moreover, in order to strengthen the human resources system, it is recommended to hold continuous courses in the field of seed quality. To implement the solutions of the paradigm model, it is recommended to prevent buying and selling unhealthy seeds and balance the costs of producing and selling processed seeds.

Publication start year	2008
Number of Volumes	18
Number of Issues	65
Number of Authors	733
Number of Submissions	1,711
Number of Reject Articles	977
Number of Accept Articles	590
Number of Reviewers	261

Volume 39 (2025)

Volume 38 (2024)

Volume 37 (2023)

Volume 36 (2022)

Volume 35 (2021)

Volume 34 (2020)

Volume 33 (2019)

Volume 32 (2018)

Volume 31 (2017)

Volume 30 (2016)

Volume 29 (2015)

Volume 28 (2014)

Volume 27 (2013)

Volume 26 (2012)

Volume 25 (2011)

Volume 24 (2010)

Volume 23 (2009)

Volume 22 (2008)

Journals Metric

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Indexing and Abstracting

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