Advances in Applied Economics: Trade, Growth and Policy Modeling

Dear Colleagues,

The Global South faces interconnected challenges of persistent poverty, gender disparities, fragile trade systems, and environmental degradation, which are often addressed in isolation, limiting the efficacy of policy interventions. The 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), underscore the need for integrated approaches to foster inclusive and sustainable economic progress. However, the synergies between trade policies, gender equity, and sustainable development remain underexplored, particularly in the context of Global South economies.

This Special Issue invites rigorous empirical and comparative studies from Africa, Asia, and Latin America to explore how governance frameworks, trade mechanisms, and gender-responsive policies can mutually reinforce sustainable economic outcomes. We seek contributions that bridge economics, political science, sociology, and environmental studies to address pressing questions: How do gender-sensitive trade policies enhance market access for marginalized groups? What role do local cooperatives and digital trade platforms play in empowering communities? How can fair and equitable trade systems be designed to promote economic resilience? Additionally, we encourage innovative methodologies to assess the economic, social, and ecological impacts of integrated policy reforms.

By improving interdisciplinary dialogue, this Special Issue aims to generate evidence-based insights and practical strategies to advance inclusive, equitable, and environmentally sustainable economic development in the Global South, aligning with global sustainability agendas.

Dr. Amirreza Kazemikhasragh
Prof. Dr. Alicia Girón
Guest Editors

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