ISSN 2284-7995, ISSN Online 2285-3952
 

Published in Scientific Papers. Series "Management, Economic Engineering in Agriculture and rural development", Vol. 25 ISSUE 3
Written by Tayfun ÇUKUR, Ferruh IŞIN, Figen ÇUKUR

The current study was conducted to analyse the beekeeping performance of some European Union countries. The data for the study were obtained from the records of the European Commission. The SAW method was used in the study and the criteria of the number of beehives, honey production, producer prices and honey export volume were used to determine the beekeeping performance of the countries. The study determined that Spain, Germany and Poland have the best beekeeping performance among the European Union countries. It is concluded that it is important to take measures to improve the production of beekeeping products in European Union countries and to ensure the long-term sustainability of beekeeping.

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CUKUR T., ISIN F., CUKUR F. 2025, ANALYSIS OF THE BEEKEEPING PERFORMANCE OF EUROPEAN UNION COUNTRIES USING THE SAW METHOD . Scientific Papers. Series "Management, Economic Engineering in Agriculture and rural development", Vol. 25 ISSUE 3, PRINT ISSN 2284-7995, 317-322.

Published in Scientific Papers. Series "Management, Economic Engineering in Agriculture and rural development", Vol. 25 ISSUE 3
Written by Aurelia LITVIN, Elena SCERBACOV

The paper purpose is to analyze the degree of assurance with sunflower production in the Republic of Moldova on the basis of the statistical data from the National Bureau of Statistics. The methods used to process the data are: analysis, synthesis, comparison and monographic. In the period of the years 2016-2023, the surface of sunflower increased approximately 1.7 times, reaching 391,9 thousand hectares in 2023 in the households of all categories. The gross harvest of sunflower in all categories of producers increased respectively by 12.0; 53.9 and 20.9% in 2023 compared to 2016, 2020 and 2022.In 2021, it was obtained the highest seed production. The good results are due to well-trained specialists, but also on the strength of the fact that the degree of insurance with agricultural machinery in the agricultural companies is at a high level. The high value of the net profit generated from the sunflower production determines the local producers to increase the areas of this crop. The increase of the sunflower oil volume intended for export denotes the fact that Moldova has reached a high level of competitiveness even at the international level. The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry made the decision to grant a license on import of the sunflower seeds to the enterprises that process this type of production for ensuring the continuity of the activity of the oil companies in the country.

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LITVIN A., SCERBACOV E. 2025, ANALYSIS OF THE DEGREE OF SUFFICIENCY WITH SUNFLOWER PRODUCTION IN THE REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA. Scientific Papers. Series "Management, Economic Engineering in Agriculture and rural development", Vol. 25 ISSUE 3, PRINT ISSN 2284-7995, 555-562.

Published in Scientific Papers. Series "Management, Economic Engineering in Agriculture and rural development", Vol. 25 ISSUE 3
Written by Liliana MORARIU (RUSU), Alina MARCUTA, Valentina Constanta TUDOR, Marius Mihai MICU, Mariana PREDA (ALEXE), Liviu MARCUTA

The paper aims to analyze, from an economic and behavioral perspective, how food spending by non-resident tourists reflects and supports the development of gastronomic tourism in Romania. The research focuses on food consumption behaviors in a tourism context, specifically targeting the categories of breakfast spending and spending in restaurants and bars. Conceptually, the approach aims to correlate food consumption as a tourism experience with general trends in international tourism, in line with theories on gastronomic travel motivations and tourism spending analysis models. The research had the following objectives: to analyze the evolution of food expenditures of non-resident tourists in Romania for the period 2019–2024, with a focus on breakfast and restaurants/bars, to identify the relationship between tourist flow and food consumption in leisure tourism compared to business tourism, to evaluate the contribution of food consumption to shaping an authentic tourist experience, to using statistical techniques to examine theories about the relationship between the quantity of visitors and food spending. The findings demonstrated that the quantity of non-resident visitors had a major impact on breakfast spending, hence validating the link between visitor volume and consumption of staple foods. However, neither the link between the food categories examined nor restaurant spending turned out to be statistically significant, indicating that other factors other than the mere numerical change of tourists influence these forms of consumption. The analysis of statistical indicators for the period 2019–2024 also highlighted the existence of important structural changes in food consumption behavior, with a clear trend of increasing the share of leisure tourism in gastronomic spending and a progressive decrease in the role of business tourism in this structure. Therefore, the topic addressed provides an analytical framework for the creation of thematic gastronomic routes, for the integration of local food products into the tourist package, for the development of rural tourism by valorizing culinary traditions or for encouraging sustainable consumption and local production. Furthermore, the research contributes to the consolidation of an identity-based and sustainable tourism model, with positive implications for the local economy, the environment and the preservation of cultural heritage.

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MORARIU (RUSU) L., MARCUTA A., TUDOR V.C., MICU M.M., PREDA (ALEXE) M., MARCUTA L. 2025, ANALYSIS OF THE INTERDEPENDENCE BETWEEN FOOD CONSUMPTION AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF GASTRONOMIC TOURISM IN ROMANIA. Scientific Papers. Series "Management, Economic Engineering in Agriculture and rural development", Vol. 25 ISSUE 3, PRINT ISSN 2284-7995, 665-674.

Published in Scientific Papers. Series "Management, Economic Engineering in Agriculture and rural development", Vol. 25 ISSUE 3
Written by Dragoș Gabriel ION, Radu Andrei IOVA

This study examines the evolution of agricultural productivity for two key arable crops: wheat and sunflower cross all 41 Romanian counties (plus the Municipality of Bucharest) by comparing two distinct periods: 1990–2006 and 2007–2023. The analysis aims to quantify changes in crop yields (tonnes per hectare) between the pre and post European Union accession eras, evaluate regional disparities in performance, and assess the consistency and variability of outputs over time. Using official statistics from the Romanian National Institute of Statistics (INS) and summary indicators (period averages, standard deviations, and growth percentages), we find that average wheat yields increased by approximately 40% (from about 2.5 to 3.5 tonnes/ha) and sunflower yields by about 58% (from roughly 1.2 to 1.9 tonnes/ha) between the two periods. These substantial productivity gains are accompanied by notable spatial variability: traditionally high-performing counties – such as Timiș, Călărași, Dolj, and Teleorman – maintained their lead, while several less productive counties (e.g. Botoșani, Vaslui) also improved but continue to lag behind the national average. Variability in yields tended to increase in the latter period, with more pronounced year-to-year fluctuations, likely due to climatic volatility and uneven adoption of modern farming techniques. The findings underscore the impact of post 2007 agricultural policies and investments on crop performance, as well as the enduring influence of structural factors (farm size, infrastructure) and climate. We suggest targeted interventions, including improved irrigation infrastructure, dissemination of advanced agronomic practices, and regions specific support, to enhance productivity in underperforming areas and mitigate the growing yield variability. This comparative regional analysis offers insights for policymakers on how to booster the productivity and resilience of Romanian agriculture in the context of both European integration and climate challenges.

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ION D.G., IOVA R.A. 2025, ASSESSING REGIONAL WHEAT AND SUNFLOWER PRODUCTIVITY IN ROMANIA PRE AND POST E.U. ACCESSION: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF 1990–2006 vs 2007–2023 . Scientific Papers. Series "Management, Economic Engineering in Agriculture and rural development", Vol. 25 ISSUE 3, PRINT ISSN 2284-7995, 499-508.

Published in Scientific Papers. Series "Management, Economic Engineering in Agriculture and rural development", Vol. 25 ISSUE 3
Written by Liviu MARCUTA, Valentina Constanta TUDOR, Miruna Daciana CIUBUC (ION), Iulian Virgil GHIULEANU, Alina MARCUTA

The present research aims to analyze the relationship between innovation and sustainable economic development in the rural areas of the European Union, in the context of the transition towards a knowledge-based economy and territorial balance. The main aim of the paper was to identify to what extent factors such as education, employment, logistics infrastructure and economic structure influence the innovation capacity of European rural regions. The methodology applied was based on a comparative quantitative analysis, using official statistical data for the period 2018–2023, extracted from Eurostat sources, and focusing on five relevant indicators: gross domestic product per capita, employment rate, share of the population with tertiary education, employment in industry and agriculture, and volume of road freight transport. The analysis included both comparisons between Member States and correlations between indicators, applied to annual series and multi-annual averages, in order to capture both recent dynamics and structural patterns. The research results show the existence of clear differences between the European Union Member States regarding the conditions that support rural innovation. Western and northern European countries are distinguished by high GDP per capita, high levels of tertiary education, dynamic labour markets and an efficient logistical infrastructure, which favour the rapid adoption of modern agricultural technologies. Southern and eastern countries present structural imbalances: a high employment rate in agriculture, a low level of skilled human capital and low economic performance, which limit the diffusion of innovations and maintain vulnerabilities. Correlational analysis confirms these findings and leads to the conclusion that rural innovation depends on a combination of economic performance, human capital and infrastructure, which requires differentiated policies to reduce the gaps. The overall conclusions indicate the need for integrated European strategies, able to capitalise on the advantages of developed regions and mitigate the structural deficits of those lagging behind, in order to ensure innovative convergence and the sustainability of European agriculture.

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MARCUTA L., TUDOR V.C., CIUBUC (ION) M.D., GHIULEANU I.V., MARCUTA A. 2025, ASSESSING THE DEGREE OF INNOVATION IN THE EUROPEAN RURAL ENVIRONMENT THROUGH A MULTI-INDICATOR COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS . Scientific Papers. Series "Management, Economic Engineering in Agriculture and rural development", Vol. 25 ISSUE 3, PRINT ISSN 2284-7995, 605-618.

Published in Scientific Papers. Series "Management, Economic Engineering in Agriculture and rural development", Vol. 25 ISSUE 3
Written by Carina DOBRE, Adina IORGA, Paula STOICEA, Ion CERTAN, Irina-Adriana CHIURCIU, Elena DIACONU (TOMA)

This study intends to evaluate the evolution and current state of Romania’s tourism sector, with a particular focus on the effects generated by the COVID-19 pandemic and the strategic directions pursued in the post-pandemic context. The analysis highlights the main structural transformations within the tourism market, shifts in tourist behaviour, and the necessary adaptations of the sector to both the challenges of the pandemic period and the requirements of the recovery phase. The analysis relied on both quantitative and qualitative data. Statistical indicators on tourism dynamics, structure, and trends were drawn from the National Institute of Statistics’ database and the White Card of Tourism in Romania, 2024 edition. Key metrics such as bed capacity, tourist arrivals, overnight stays, and occupancy rates were compared for 2019 and 2023 across regions and types of accommodation. Additionally, data from a survey of 705 tourism operators captured perspectives on income evolution, risk factors, financing, human resources, and digital sales channels. This mixed-method approach enabled a comprehensive assessment of how Romania’s tourism sector has evolved and adapted in the post-COVID context. Among the main results of the study, we note the following: domestic tourism has developed due to Romanians' growing preference for local destinations amid the uncertainties associated with international travel; an increased preference for online booking platforms; and a greater demand for personalized travel, with tourists prioritizing safety and health measures. The results highlight the strength of the Romanian tourism sector, which, despite challenges, has a substantial potential for growth, particularly through innovative digital technologies and sustainable practices. Furthermore, the study suggests that ongoing adaptation to evolving consumer preferences and the development of local tourism infrastructure will be essential for sustaining this growth.

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DOBRE C., IORGA A., STOICEA P., CERTAN I., CHIURCIU I.A., DIACONU (TOMA) E. 2025, ASSESSING THE ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL EVOLUTION OF TOURISM IN ROMANIA: NAVIGATING POST-COVID CHALLENGES. Scientific Papers. Series "Management, Economic Engineering in Agriculture and rural development", Vol. 25 ISSUE 3, PRINT ISSN 2284-7995, 335-342.

Published in Scientific Papers. Series "Management, Economic Engineering in Agriculture and rural development", Vol. 25 ISSUE 3
Written by Tarek FOUDA, Adel Hamed EL-BAHNASAWY, Nourhan KASSAB

The aim of this study is to determine the rate of ethylene diffusion and the heat load that the cooling system must handle and its effect on the coefficient of performance (COP). In this investigation, we experimented three banana ripening models in the Gharbia Governorate's city of Santa between December 2023 and January 2024. Model 1 was 72 m3 with thermally insulated cement walls that were 30 mm thick; Model 2 was 60 m3 of cement walls that were also insulated, but they were 12.5 mm thick; and Model 3 had 36 m3 built with ceramic walls of 24 mm thick. The measurement indicators were the respiration heat of bananas (Qr), the external heat load (Qext), the cooling load in a banana refrigerator (Qc), the coefficient of performance (COP) and the rate of ethylene diffusion. The findings can be summed up as follows: the model size has a direct link with the respiration temperature, cooling load, and coefficient of performance (COP), and it has an inverse relationship with the ethylene diffusion rate, internal temperature, and external temperature. The economic impact of banana storage reflects an increase in accrued revenues and thus an increase in net profit.

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FOUDA T., EL-BAHNASAWY A.H., KASSAB N. 2025, BANANAS RIPENING MODELS IN A COOLING SYSTEM: COEFFICIENT OF PERFORMANCE, DIFFUSION FLUX OF ETHYLENE AND ECONOMIC IMPACT . Scientific Papers. Series "Management, Economic Engineering in Agriculture and rural development", Vol. 25 ISSUE 3, PRINT ISSN 2284-7995, 413-422.

Published in Scientific Papers. Series "Management, Economic Engineering in Agriculture and rural development", Vol. 25 ISSUE 3
Written by Antoaneta Roxana SPULBER, Teodora COLȚA, Cosmina SMEDESCU, Cristina VĂDUVA, Maria DINCĂ, Silviu Ionuț BEIA, Dragoș SMEDESCU

Apilarnil is a beekeeping product obtained from drone larvae, recognized for its biochemical and therapeutic properties, but also for its economic potential. The present study explores both the biological dimensions and medical uses of apilarnil, as well as its economic and managerial implications in the context of Romanian beekeeping. The analysis includes the presentation of existing products on international markets, highlighting the diversity of pharmaceutical forms and therapeutic applications, from supporting reproductive and immune health to anti-aging and vitality-stimulating effects. In parallel, data on the structure and organization of the beekeeping sector in Romania are evaluated, with a focus on the number of beekeepers and the relevance of financial indicators. The results emphasize that apilarnil has a dual role: on the one hand as a biological resource with multiple health benefits, and on the other hand as an economic opportunity that can contribute to strengthening the competitiveness and sustainability of Romanian beekeeping in a European and international context.

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SPULBER A.R., COLTA T., SMEDESCU C., VADUVA C., DINCA M., BEIA S.I., SMEDESCU D. 2025, BIOCHEMICAL AND ECONOMIC DIMENSIONS OF APILARNIL WITH A FOCUS ON ROMANIAN APICULTURE . Scientific Papers. Series "Management, Economic Engineering in Agriculture and rural development", Vol. 25 ISSUE 3, PRINT ISSN 2284-7995, 807-816.

Published in Scientific Papers. Series "Management, Economic Engineering in Agriculture and rural development", Vol. 25 ISSUE 3
Written by Elena Adriana SIMA (MARIN), Dorina Nicoleta MOCUȚA

The Covid-19 pandemic has led to significant changes in many areas of activity, and food has suffered in terms of quantity, quality, price and logistics. The article focused on the livestock population, generated by the relocation of the population to the rural area and the self-production of some of the food, as well as the quality of poultry products in Romania (chicken meat and eggs). According to the Romanian Institute of Statistics, the number of chickens sharply decreased in 2020, by 5.55% compared to 2019, only to suddenly increase by about 10% in 2021-2023, and afterwards it remained constant. For Romania, the number of egg-laying birds is what makes the difference, being directly proportionally correlated with egg consumption per capita. By comparing the statistical data to the responses received in a questionnaire-based survey from 877 inhabitants throughout Romania, it can be stated that the rapid recovery of the poultry sector was due to the population's agri-food changes and their decision to produce part of their own food.

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SIMA (MARIN) E.A., MOCUTA D.N. 2025, CHANGING CONSUMER PREFERENCES TOWARDS POULTRY PRODUCTS (EGGS AND MEAT) IN THE PERIOD 2019-2024 IN ROMANIA. Scientific Papers. Series "Management, Economic Engineering in Agriculture and rural development", Vol. 25 ISSUE 3, PRINT ISSN 2284-7995, 791-796.

Published in Scientific Papers. Series "Management, Economic Engineering in Agriculture and rural development", Vol. 25 ISSUE 3
Written by Lorena CHIȚEA

The aim of this paper is to conceptualise the human capital starting from early approaches to the present day. The human capital concept has been a constant in the economic and social thinking and practice even since classical economics, followed by the approaches in the post-war period and those specific to the recent and contemporary period. The intensity of human capital research has fluctuated over time, yet the interest has remained permanent and acquired new dimensions and valences. The present period comes with a series of new challenges and opportunities for the accumulation of human capital. Human capital is an important pillar in economic growth and sustainable rural development. In the current context, characterised by geo-political instability, pressure of climate change, economic instability and technological changes, human capital is subject to pressures that it has to face, both on the labour market and in social life, which presupposes the increase of resilience through the accumulation of new knowledge and skills.

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CHITEA L. 2025, CONCEPTUALISATION OF HUMAN CAPITAL AND SUSTAINABLE RURAL DEVELOPMENT . Scientific Papers. Series "Management, Economic Engineering in Agriculture and rural development", Vol. 25 ISSUE 3, PRINT ISSN 2284-7995, 215-222.

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© 2019 To be cited: Scientific Papers. Series “Management, Economic Engineering in Agriculture and Rural Development“.

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