This dissertation analyzed spatial agglomeration economies associated with the geographical distribution of the U.S. biotech industry. Three location issues associated with the biotech industry were addressed in the study. The first study utilized a Bayesian spatial tobit model and examined the...

This dissertation focuses on two research themes related to econometric estimation oflinear almost ideal demand systems (LAIDS) for U.S. meats. The first theme addresses whethernonstationarity (unit-roots and cointegration) contributes to a dynamic specification of LAIDSmodels. The results of...

In the past several decades, the international rice market has undergone major changes experiencing a strong expansion in traded volumes and in the volatility of rice prices. International rice prices are, furthermore, expected to remain at relatively high levels because of higher fertilizer and...

Some of the literature about foreign direct investment (FDI) analyzes the location of FDI. It tries to identify the factors that affect FDI flows. On the association between remittances and growth, this is still an open discussion. This journal style dissertation is an attempt to investigate...

Economic theory states that the exchange rates influences movements in agricultural prices and are in an important determinant of the agricultural sector trade. This paper reviewed the theory and economic models under which exchange rate fluctuations create shifts in the excess supply and demand...

A large body of empirical literature has investigated the linkages between exports and output. Nevertheless, empirical evidence remains inconclusive and the topic remains open to discussion. Additionally, a number of studies have examined the positive effects that export diversification may have...

The objective of this thesis was to examine the validity of the Export-Led Growth(ELG) hypothesis in nine Southern African countries using annual data for the period1980-2002. The thesis used time series econometric techniques to test for the causallinkage between exports and economic growth in...

As a result of the Uruguay Round (UR), the impact on the international rice market is profound. In addition, another round of the WTO trade negotiations has started and the impacts of potential policy changes on rice trade are unknown. The major U.S. benefit of the UR has been the access to the...

Louisiana strawberry production has decreased over a period of years while national production has increased, leading to concern that Louisiana's strawberry industry might disappear. California, the leading producer state, has exploited its production advantages and marketing efficiency to...

The flow of nursery products through the different market channels has changed over the past decade. As mass-merchandisers market share increased, buyers of nursery product imposed conditions on nursery growers in terms of their business practices as well as the presentation of the product...