nep-ara New Economics Papers
on MENA - Middle East and North Africa
Issue of 2024‒03‒18
nine papers chosen by
Paul Makdissi, Université d’Ottawa


  1. Theoretical focusat the Takaful ecosystem in Morocco: state of play and achievements By Badr Abouzaid; Marouane Balla
  2. The Fluctuation Of The Policy Rate And Inflation In The Moroccan Banking Sector By Mamoun Alaoui
  3. Reserves, Prices, and Policy: An Empirical Analysis of Strategic Crop Reserves in Arab Countries By Chellai, Fatih
  4. Decision-making and Folklore in the Matter of Life and Death: Brain Death, Organ Donation, and Miracle Narratives By Hicran Karatas
  5. Women Seeking Jobs with Limited Information: Evidence from Iraq By Diego A. Martin
  6. Understanding the Relationship Between Natural Habitat Loss and Urban Development in Irbid Governorate By Anne A. Gharaibeh; Tareq N. Aldela’a
  7. Qatar: 2023 Article IV Consultation-Press Release; and Staff Report By International Monetary Fund
  8. Les Facteurs Clés de Succès d'une Substitution d’Enseignes By Kannou, Ahmed
  9. Les Antécédents de la Résistance des Consommateurs à la Stratégie de Changement d’Enseignes : Preuves Issues d'un Contexte Tunisien By Kannou, Ahmed

  1. By: Badr Abouzaid (ENCGT - Ecole Nationale de Commerce et de Gestion de Tanger - UAE - Université Abdelmalek Essaâdi); Marouane Balla (ENCGT - Ecole Nationale de Commerce et de Gestion de Tanger - UAE - Université Abdelmalek Essaâdi)
    Abstract: The introduction of participatory banks in Morocco during 2017 has seen remarkable growth and solid performance. However, these entities face several regulatory and financial constraints and challenges that limit the development of their environment. Hence, the example of Takaful insurance is a perfect illustration. Indeed, this form of insurance was launched in June 2022, marking a considerable delay compared to the launch of these banks. This delay has resulted in significant additional costs and risks to be managed. In this context, our study focuses on a literature review that aims to understand and analyse the foundations and principles of Takaful insurance in general, while exposing its sources and reference models. Subsequently, we will take a critical look at the late introduction of Takaful in Morocco and the record of its achievements. To attain our objective, we conducted a descriptive content research.
    Abstract: L'introduction des banques participatives au Maroc durant l'année 2017 a connu un essor remarquable et des performances solides. Toutefois, ces entités sont confrontées à plusieurs contraintes et défis d'ordre réglementaire et financier qui limitent leur environnement. Ainsi, l'exemple de l'assurance Takaful en est l'illustration parfaite. En effet, celle-ci a été lancée en juin 2022, en marquant un retard considérable par rapport au lancement de ces banques. Ce retard a entraîné des coûts supplémentaires et des risques significatifs devant être gérés. Dans ce contexte, notre étude se concentre sur une revue de littérature qui vise à comprendre et d'analyser les fondements et les principes de l'assurance Takaful, en général, ainsi qu'à porter un regard critique sur l'introduction tardive de cette forme d'assurance au Maroc et le bilan de ses réalisations, en particulier. Pour atteindre notre objectif, nous avons mené une recherche sur le contenu descriptif.
    Keywords: Maroc, Finance islamique, Banques participatives, Assurance, Takaful Morocco, Islamic Finance, Participatory banks, Insurance, Takaful, Takaful.
    Date: 2023
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hal:journl:hal-04436651&r=ara
  2. By: Mamoun Alaoui (UH2MC - Université Hassan II [Casablanca])
    Abstract: This article aims to analyze and study the fluctuation of the key rate and inflation on the Moroccan banking sector during the period between June 2022 and July 2023. In addition, the study of the impact of the fluctuation of the policy rate and inflation on outstanding bank loans, bank deposits and on the effectiveness of the policy rate in lowering the inflation rate and consequently, their impact on the Moroccan banking sector. In order to achieve greater objectivity and scientific clarity in the analysis and processing of data relating to our subject, I have mainly used a static method and a dynamic method to verify our assertions arising from the main problem and to confirm or refute our hypotheses. The result allows us to conclude that the relationship between the fluctuation of the key interest rate and inflation on the Moroccan banking sector is significant, since with the increase in inflation and the key interest rate, we can see that outstanding loans decreased immediately afterwards. Key words: Policy rate, inflation, bank deposits, outstanding bank loans, Moroccan banking sector.
    Abstract: Cet article vise à analyser et étudier la fluctuation du taux directeur et de l'inflation sur le secteur bancaire Marocain pendant la durée entre Juin 2022 et Juillet 2023. En outre, l'étude de l'impact de la fluctuation du taux directeur et de l'inflation sur l'encours des crédits bancaire, des dépôts bancaires et sur l'efficacité du taux directeur dans la baisse du taux d'inflation et par conséquent leurs impact sur le secteur bancaire Marocain. Afin d'atteindre une plus grande objectivité et une clarté scientifique dans l'analyse et le traitement des données relatives à notre sujet, nous avons utilisé principalement une méthode statique et une méthode dynamique pour vérifier nos affirmations qui découlent de la problématique principale et confirmer ou infirmer nos hypothèses. Le résultat nous permet de conclure que la relation entre la fluctuation du taux directeur et de l'inflation sur le secteur bancaire Marocain est significative car avec l'augmentation de l'inflation et du taux directeur on constate que les encours de crédits ont connu une diminution juste après. Mots clés : Taux directeur, inflation, dépôts bancaires, encours des crédits bancaire, secteur bancaire Marocain.
    Keywords: Taux directeur, inflation, dépôts bancaires, encours des crédits bancaire, secteur bancaire Marocain
    Date: 2024–02–03
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hal:journl:hal-04456595&r=ara
  3. By: Chellai, Fatih
    Abstract: Subject and purpose of work: In recent years, global food systems have faced challenges like disasters, extreme weather events, and market fluctuations, such as the Ukraine-Russia conflict. This study analyzes strategic crop reserves, specifically for wheat and rice, in Arab countries. It examines the objectives and obstacles associated with these reserves. Material and methods: different statistical methods have been used, including regression analysis and neural network prediction models. Results: Findings reveal significant agricultural production deficits in Arab economies. However, some countries maintain substantial crop reserves. We found an inverse relationship between wheat reserves and wheat prices . Additionally, energy prices correlate positively with agricultural commodity prices. Forecasting models anticipate short-term global grain stock stability but predict short-term increases in agricultural price indices (until 2024) followed by long-term decreases (by 2030). Conclusions: Policymakers should support agricultural strategies, particularly for strategic crops. To address current challenges, we suggest securing long-term contracts for strategic crops, diversifying suppliers, and avoiding reliance on a few sources.
    Keywords: Strategic Food;Food Reserve, Food security, Arab Countries.
    JEL: C1 E3 Q1
    Date: 2024–02–07
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:120067&r=ara
  4. By: Hicran Karatas (Bartın University, Bartın, Turkiye)
    Abstract: Turkiye and the rest of the world have been experiencing insufficient cadaveric organ donations. Although Turkey laws regulating organ transplantation allow the harvest of organs from the brain-dead who donated their organs while they were alive, Turkish social norms prohibit physicians from applying the written procedures. Therefore, both verbal and written consent of the close relatives of the possible cadaveric donors must be obtained after the brain death is announced. The ambiguity of the concept of brain death, invented in the 50s, and the terminology of modern medicine limit people’s ability to comprehend the states of coma, vegetative life, and brain death. Even though cross-cultural studies verify that the most common reasons for reluctance in cadaveric organ donations are religious concerns, interviews with donors and refusers, who are the relatives of brain-death people, revealed that folklore transmitted to generations within the context of beliefs, rituals, social norms, and oral genres also affect the judgment of prospective donors. As will be discussed in this paper, miracle narratives are particularly referenced in rejecting the reality of brain death in the conducted interviews. This paper will explore how such narratives affect decision-making process of refusers concerning the death of one and the survival of another.
    Keywords: Culture, folklore, cadaveric organ donation, decision-making, miracle narratives
    Date: 2023–08
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:smo:raiswp:0296&r=ara
  5. By: Diego A. Martin (Growth Lab)
    Abstract: Do women apply more for jobs when they know the hiring probability of female job seekers directly from employers? I implemented a randomized control trial and a double-incentivized resume rating to elicit the preferences of employers and job seekers for candidates and vacancies in Iraq. The treatment reveals the job offer rate for women, calculated using the employers’ selection of women divided by the total number of female candidates. After revealing the treatment, the women applied for jobs by three more percentage points than the men in the control group. This paper highlights the value of revealing employers’ preferences to improve the match between female candidates and employers when women underestimate the chances of finding a job.
    Keywords: Iraq, Application for jobs, Information treatment, Labor market matching, Gender difference
    JEL: J61 J64 J70
    Date: 2024–02
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:cid:wpfacu:157a&r=ara
  6. By: Anne A. Gharaibeh (Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan); Tareq N. Aldela’a (Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan)
    Abstract: The global population has grown rapidly, causing urbanization and rural habitat loss. Current research investigates the causes for habitat loss and fragmentation in the Bani-Kinanah County, Irbid, Jordan. It defines loss and fragmentation as natural or anthropogenic separation of green land. It also examines decision-makers' challenges and proposes greenways to reduce habitat loss and fragmentation. The study utilized snowball sampling to interview decision-makers and ArcGIS software to digitize aerial photographs. A literature review and criteria analysis determined greenway and green corridor locations. The study compared digitized aerial photos from 2005 and 2021 for several villages to assess built-up areas, street construction, and ecological natural corridors. Agricultural footprints were also examined. Interviewing the decision-makers revealed that habitat loss and fragmentation are attributed to physical and non-physical factors. they suggested modifications to natural habitat regulations and laws, public awareness of their importance and the causes of fragmentation, and physical interventions to minimize negative effects to prevent habitat fragmentation and loss. This study provides a foundation for understanding habitat fragmentation and loss and proposing solutions. The study recommends community involvement and collaboration with nature/environmental associations to monitor and prevent changes. It also proposes greenways and green corridors to sustain natural habitats.
    Keywords: Habitat loss and Fragmentation, greenway planning, rural development, Jordan
    Date: 2023–08
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:smo:raiswp:0295&r=ara
  7. By: International Monetary Fund
    Abstract: After very strong economic performance in 2022, boosted by the successful hosting of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, output growth has been normalizing. High hydrocarbon prices further strengthened fiscal and external positions. Banks are strong, although non-performing loans continued to edge up. Reforms have gained momentum and are expected to intensify under the upcoming Third National Development Strategy.
    Date: 2024–02–07
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:imf:imfscr:2024/043&r=ara
  8. By: Kannou, Ahmed
    Abstract: The objective of this article is to propose and evaluate a model aimed at identifying the main success factors of brand substitution. To this end, a quantitative study was carried out in Tunisia with a sample of 340 consumers. The results of this study highlight three variables likely to contribute to the formation of consumer trust when substituting brands: (1) information relating to the change, (2) the similarity between the brand of substitution and the original brand, and (3) the perceived benefits resulting from this change. These results allow us to identify the key success factors that promote the smooth transfer of consumer confidence from the old brand to the new.
    Keywords: Sign, Name of the Sign, Substitution of Brands, Substitution of Signs
    JEL: M31 M51 M55
    Date: 2024
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:120234&r=ara
  9. By: Kannou, Ahmed
    Abstract: Resistance to changing retail brands is a well-studied phenomenon in the social psychology literature, particularly in the field of brand/brand management. It refers to the propensity of consumers to express opposition or a negative reaction when a brand is replaced by another on the market. Understanding the factors that influence this resistance is crucial for companies wishing to successfully introduce innovative new brands. By focusing on consumers, our study examined the impact of two key factors, often mentioned in the literature as antecedents of resistance to change (RTC): individual perceptions of the costs/benefits of change and their level of information on the change. To do this, we first formulated alternative hypotheses regarding the effect of these two antecedents on RTC. Next, we tested these hypotheses using structured survey data, collected from a sample of more than 351 Tunisian consumers. In line with the predominant arguments in the literature, the results of the analysis clearly supported the idea that the two factors studied have a significant influence on the tendency of consumers to adopt various forms of resistance to change.
    Keywords: Consumer Resistance, Brand Switching Strategy, Tunisian Context.
    JEL: M21 M30 M31 M38
    Date: 2024
    URL: http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:120273&r=ara

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