This study investigates the relationship between shipping connectivity, environmental quality, financial development, and economic growth among 14 countries in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) from 2006 to 2019. Using panel-corrected standard error, Dynamic Seemingly Unrelated Regression, and Driscoll–Kraay estimation methods, the analysis reveals that shipping connectivity significantly contributes to financial development and economic growth, while also exerting a negative impact on environmental quality. These findings suggest that the maritime sector can have significant impacts not only on economic growth and financial development but also on environmental sustainability. In countries where maritime shipping has increased, particularly with the growth of trade, positive outcomes are observed in terms of financial development and economic growth, while negative impacts on environmental quality are also evident. This study provides insights for policymakers to develop strategies that maximize economic benefits while reducing environmental harm in order to achieve sustainable development in the maritime sector.

The main purpose of the study is to examine the impact of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and working capital management practices on the performance of small and medium-sized firms (SMEs) in Kosovo during the lock-in period. In addition, the aim of the study is to investigate how employee behavior affects the relationship between corporate social responsibility, working capital management and the performance of small and medium-sized enterprises. A quantitative research method is used to obtain the necessary data. Respondents are employees of small and medium-sized businesses currently working in Kosovo, and surveys are mailed and in person. The PLS-SEM method was used to examine whether there is a statistically significant relationship between corporate social responsibility, working capital management practices, and SMEs performance. The relationship between corporate social responsibility, working capital management and financial success was investigated using a quantitative research method. The study found a significant correlation between corporate social responsibility (CSR), working capital management practices and the success of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Kosovo. The data also showed that employee behavior plays a mediating role in the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR), working capital management practices and the performance of small and medium enterprises in Kosovo, according to the results. Significant gaps in the work have been identified as a result of inconsistent application of financial criteria by businesses that define sustainability. In addition, the study contributes to the preservation of enterprise valuation standards by providing guidance for small business owners and operators.

This study investigates the relationship between shipping connectivity, environmental quality, financial development, and economic growth among 14 countries in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) from 2006 to 2019. Using panel-corrected standard error, Dynamic Seemingly Unrelated Regression, and Driscoll-Kraay estimation methods, the analysis reveals that shipping connectivity significantly contributes to financial development and economic growth, while also exerting a negative impact on environmental quality. These findings underscore the dual role of shipping connectivity in fostering economic prosperity and increasing environmental challenges, highlighting the trade-offs between growth and sustainability. The study also emphasizes that as trade between RCEP countries grows, driven in part by the removal of customs tariffs, shipping activities—and consequently environmental pollution—will likely increase. To achieve sustainable development in the maritime sector, policymakers must devise strategies that maximize economic benefits while mitigating environmental harm. These strategies include promoting environmentally friendly green ports, adopting low-carbon and advanced technologies, and strengthening policies to control emissions and marine pollution. Collaboration among shipping companies, local governments, and environmental organizations is also essential.

Kosovo’s private sector business is led by small and medium enterprises and shows acrucial role in the economic development and promoting the growth of this sector. Dueto the lack of studies in Kosova, related to marketing strategy and export performance,the research aims to explore growth determinants of SMEs in Kosovo by emphasizingexports, revealing the importance of marketing strategy related to the performance ofSMEs. Since exporting is becoming more important, it is necessary to understand allthe factors that are involved in this booming trade. This research analyses explore theliterature dealing with small and medium enterprises' performance to inspect thetraditional and modern academic standpoints on estimating the impact of exportperformance, based on secondary data of five hundred small and medium enterprises,as trade, manufacturing, and services sectors in Kosovo. The data were analysed usingboth descriptive statistics and inferential techniques, such as logistic regressionanalysis, and probit model using the SPSS software. Results show a significant linkageof marketing strategy and export performance; managers and policymakers can takesome action to improve export performance. On the other hand, the results measure theimpact of price, production, promotion and place in export performance incorporateexpected future performance. It is argued that enterprises in Kosovo must pay moreattention to strategies, and attempt to design and implement better strategies that willbe beneficial for developing international trade, especially exports, as one way oftrading by SMEs.