More titles

• 

  The interplay between trade integration and air transport in Africa

  This study examines the interaction between the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) in the context of economic integration in Africa. The objective is to systematize and synthesize existing literature and to develop an integrated conceptual framework for analyzing their combined economic ... This study examines the interaction between the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) in the context of economic integration in Africa. The objective is to systematize and synthesize existing literature and to develop an integrated conceptual framework for analyzing their combined economic effects. The study adopts a qualitative approach based on a conceptual literature review. The results indicate that trade integration and air transport liberalization are interdependent processes, operating through key mediating factors such as transport infrastructure, institutional coordination, regulatory harmonization, and the reduction of non-tariff barriers. The findings suggest that the interaction between AfCFTA and SAATM can generate cumulative economic effects, although their realization depends on structural and institutional conditions. The study contributes to the literature by integrating two largely separate analytical fields and by proposing a conceptual framework for future empirical research.

• 

  Franchising in the tourism sector

  The primary objective of this study is to analyze the role and effectiveness of the franchising model as a strategy for sustainable development and global expansion within the tourism sector. The research focuses on identifying the specific advantages for franchisors (rapid entry into new markets with low capital risk) and franchisees (access to ... The primary objective of this study is to analyze the role and effectiveness of the franchising model as a strategy for sustainable development and global expansion within the tourism sector. The research focuses on identifying the specific advantages for franchisors (rapid entry into new markets with low capital risk) and franchisees (access to an established brand, know-how, and marketing support). A comprehensive approach was employed, including a comparative analysis of leading international franchise chains in the hotel and restaurant industries. Methods of descriptive research on market data, SWOT analysis of the model in a dynamic environment, and a synthesis of best practices were applied. The legal and economic aspects of franchise agreements in tourism were also examined. The analysis demonstrates that franchising is a key driver for quality standardization in tourism, which enhances consumer trust. The results indicate that operating under a common brand allows small and medium-sized enterprises to survive in a highly competitive environment through access to global reservation systems and innovation. The conclusion confirms that despite challenges related to quality control, franchising remains the most successful model for scaling business within the tourism industry.

• 

  Digitalization in customs: economic and institutional impacts

  Customs administrations are experiencing a significant transformation propelled by the swift growth of international trade and the rising complexity of global supply chains. Digitalization has become a crucial element in this evolution, enhancing efficiency, transparency, and risk management within customs operations. This paper examines the ... Customs administrations are experiencing a significant transformation propelled by the swift growth of international trade and the rising complexity of global supply chains. Digitalization has become a crucial element in this evolution, enhancing efficiency, transparency, and risk management within customs operations. This paper examines the economic and institutional ramifications of digitalization in contemporary customs administration through qualitative document analysis of institutional reports and scholarly literature. The results demonstrate that electronic customs systems can lead to a reduction in clearance times by 30�70% and a decrease in global trade costs by roughly 14.3%. The application of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the Internet of Things further boosts operational efficiency, risk-based management, and visibility within the supply chain. However, the study also indicates that the advantages of digitalization are distributed unevenly, attributed to gaps in infrastructure, differences in regulatory frameworks, and the global digital divide. This emphasizes the importance of coordinated international policies and institutional collaboration.