The Relationship Between Shadow Economy and Macroeconomic Indicators in Syria

Shadow economy is considered the most important economic problem which is still of concern to researchers for it is linked to all economic variables. It is found in all States with different economic patterns. But it is more widespread in developing economies includes a recipe for lawful activities and other illegal .And it exists in all economic levels and affect all social strata and in all ages. Despite its characterization as a phenomenon, it cannot be overlooked as a reality. Depending on that, this research tried to clarify the concept of the shadow economy, and identify its components. As well as, this research shows the most important macroeconomic indicators in Syria and the impact of economic variables on the shadow economy.

The Mechanism of Operational Integration 1process between a Seaport and a Free Zone: a Case Study on Jebel Ali Free Zone

This research discusses the operational integration mechanism between a seaport and a free zone, a case study on Jebel Ali Free Zone; selecting Jebel for its high performance and distinguished position achieved on both Arabic and International levels; definitions of the various types of free zones were introduced as well as a figure representing the mechanism of operational integration supported by a thorough analysis of the current cargo flow between Jebel Ali Free Zone and Port on various fields and levels, such as custom clearance, informatics such as Tradnet , Main, Mirsal and Electronic Data Interchange, and its role in creating such integration, a statistical hypothetical tests were conducted on the relationship among the number of containers handled at the port and free zone , exports , imports and Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The research concluded the importance of benefiting from Jebel Ali Free zone experience of integration between the seaport and free zone.

The Relative Importance of Competitiveness Axes and its Role in Economic Growth in Syria

The concept of competitiveness is a new economic concept characterized by dynamism and consists of three axes, which are basic requirements, efficiency enhancers and creativity development factors. Therefore, attention must be paid to competitiveness and benefit should be obtained from its concept to achieve economic development, growth and improving people's living standard. In this research we studied the relationship between per capita GDP as a touchstone of economic growth on the one hand, and competitiveness index on the other. We also determined priorities posed by competitive axes in calculating the value of this index to get standard models that play a role in determining relations and predicting future values, and determining the appropriate strategy for economic growth. We concluded that the basic prerequisites play the largest role in the planning of economic growth (45%), followed by boosters (34%), and we discovered that creativity development factors play a trivial role in economic growth (21%). These results indicate that the competitive index depends on the service and commercial hubs and creativity development is not given the attention it deserves as it has an essential role in the economic growth and cultural progress.