Homicide in Puerto Rico Essay

Crime is not a new phenomenon in any society and it is the duty of the various sections or branches of the criminal justice systems to ensure that their citizens are safe. Peace and harmony are among the major goals of any criminal justice system. Homicide which refers to the cessation of the life of a person by another could be in two major forms; the planned or well premeditated also termed as murder or due to some circumstances or at the spur of the moment or manslaughter. Various theories of crime have been coined to explain crime and delinquency in the society and they range from psychological, biological, conflict, social disorganization, social learning as well as feminist theories of crime. (Burke R, 2005). The psychological and biological theories tend to explain why specific individuals tend to commit crime and are inappropriate when explaining trends of crime in a given region. Feminist theories also tend to be inclined on the role of gender in explaining crime and may also not be appropriate in explaining increasing crime rates in general. The social conflict, social disorganization, social learning theories can be used to explain the homicide rates in Puerto Rico. An exploration of the various theories of crime places the criminal justice system in a better position to respond to crime in the society with improved prevention as well as sanctioning strategies. Strain theory The Merton’s theories of crime also known as the strain theories argue that deviance in the society is as a result of a discrepancy between the societal or culturally set aspirations and the legally acceptable means to realize them. In this regard, the society is blamed for the crime rates within its jurisdiction. Setting goals for her members and then failing to offer the appropriate or institutionally acceptable means to realize them leaves the members of the society in awkward or confused situation. A clear illustration is how Americans have been socialized to embrace the ‘American Dream’ where attaining wealth and material gain are highly venerated. However, the same society fails to resolve the constraints that would deter the Americans from realizing this goal forcing them to behave in various ways that may not be in line with the expectations of the society. The Merton strain theory can best be applied to explain crime rates in poverty stricken regions where out of frustrations the poor behave in different ways as they try to meet the expectations of the society. (Clinard M, 1967). According to Merton’s theory, some act as ‘conformists’ and accept the societal set goals and values as well as the institutionally acceptable means of realizing them. Such people pose no threat to the society in as far as crime and deviance is concerned. Others are viewed as ‘ritualists’ who reject the set goals by the society though they accept or rather respect the institutionally acceptable means of attaining the set goals. Others are deemed as ‘rebels’ who reject the societal goals and values as well as the legitimate means of realizing the said goals. These include the drug and alcohol addicts who result into this habit due to the realization that they cannot attain the societal set goals. To Merton, the ‘innovators’ are those who accept the societal or culturally set aspirations but reject the socially acceptable means of realizing these goals. Burke R. 2005). The innovators are a threat to the societal peace and harmony as they may embrace criminal approaches to attain the set goals. They include drug traffickers as well as prostitutes who indulge in these activities as a way of attaining wealth and material gain as has been stipulated in the ‘American Dream’. Modern strain theorists have expounded on Merton’s ideology to embrace other culturally set expectations for instance those affecting the young people that are not necessarily related to wealth or material gain. In other words, they adopt a social aspect in addition to the economic aspect coined by Merton. These include the desire for academic and sports excellence as well as fame. To them, one’s relations also plays a vital role in determining people’s behavior where those who interact with people favoring deviant behaviors will tend to be deviant while those favoring conformity will not be a security threat to the society. The general strain theory as coined by Akers can be used to explain why the young people engage in drugs and this could further be associated with crime such as homicides. Strain in this context is associated with depression, disappointment, fear and anger which trigger the desire to revenge against the society or which lead to the adoption of coping mechanisms that favor criminal behavior rather than conformity to the societal norms and values. Bearing in mind the poverty conditions in Puerto Rico this theory can be applied to explain the escalating homicide rates in the region. The argument here is that some people will engage in drug trafficking business as a way of accumulating wealth and material gain and can be viewed as ‘innovators’. On the other hand, some will engage in drug consumption and abuse due to their desperation or as an act of revenge against the society. Drug abuse will be rampant for the young people who are likely to engage in gangs favoring the use of drugs after dropping out of schools. Homicide rates will also be higher among the gang members and this is made easier by the higher availability of arms. (Peffer R, 2002). The social learning theory of crime The social learning theory of crime can also be used to explain crime and delinquency in society. Unlike the biological theories that blame criminal behavior on people’s biological makeup, this argues that crime is not an inherent behavior but a learnt behavior. This theory was coined by Ronald Akers and was an improvement of Sutherland’s differentiation theory where he argued that crime portrays learning as an interactive relationship whose success revolves around effective communication. It is thought to take place among people with intimate or close relationships such as family and friends. To learn crime, individuals learn the techniques used from those with the experience. They also get to learn of the motives or drives of committing the crimes they engage in. Another vital aspect learnt in this process is the rationalization as well as attitudes that favour crime. Sutherland suggests that the period or time of contact is quite influential in determining the associations made. Differential associations tend to vary in frequency, duration as well as their intensity. People learn the motives of crime from the definition of legal codes and behaviour is termed as favourable or unfavourable and that which is defined as favourable will be highly embraced while the unfavourable will unfavourable will be avoided. (Sutherland E and Cressey D, 1970). The belief of this theory is that people become delinquent due excess definitions that favour the violation of law rather than adherence to it. In other words meanings are awarded and respected and will vary with varying conditions. Akers developed Sutherland’s work by emphasizing on the role of imitation as well as reinforcement in learning crime. This theory can be used to explain the homicide rates in Puerto Rico where peer influence plays a role in encouraging drug use which in turn triggers indulgence in crime. Interactions with people who define drug use as a favorable act will see the young people engage in drugs to fit in. With time they will rationalize their behavior and after imitating the other gang members they will internalize the use of drugs. Such people are more likely to engage in crime to finance their habits and some may result to drug trafficking. People under the influence of drugs may have an impaired reasoning or judgment capacity and they may comfortably murder those they perceive as a threat to their existence in business. Others may kill in the process of committing other crimes such as robbery with the aim of financing their drug addiction. (Montalvo-Barbot A. , 1997). A limitation of this theory is that it ignores the probability of attracting conformity thus causing no threat to the society’s security. This theory also ignores the role of individual reasoning or decision making process. Some people are not taught to kill and others engage in drugs and eventually crime due to personal reasons rather than being influenced by peers and family members. The social learning theory of crime also fails to offer adequate explanations regarding the origin or crime but only discusses how crime is spread. Another critic is that it is single sided in the sense that it focuses on those who are non criminals. It also assumes that all people have an equal access to criminal and anti criminal behaviour. (Akers R, 2000).

Cardava Turon

1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARYIf you happen to visit one of your favorite malls here in the town most especially their supermarkets such as SM Hypermarket, Robinson’s Supermarket and Metro Supermarket, you can notice that they are all selling â€Å"turon†, which they started selling a year or a couple of years ago. Turon an all-time favorite Filipino merienda is starting to boom as a profitable business nowadays as not just the local mall supermarket are into the business of selling â€Å"turon† but to almost every canteen in a university. Let’s not go far by looking at Holy Angel University where almost every canteen is selling all-time favorite turon. That is why; we had come up to present â€Å"Cardava Turon† as our original product for the YEntrepMan Business Plan.â€Å"Cardava Turon† came from the word â€Å"Cardava Banana† which means â€Å"Saba Banana† in the Philippines.Cardava Turon was made possible because of the booming  "turon† business. We’ve thought that selling â€Å"turon† could be a better idea to produce a product that is known and saleable. But because of our innovative mind and ideas, we had thought of ways on how to introduce our product more differently and more uniquely. We will not just produce the common type of turon rather we will produce the future best-selling merienda in town, which every individual will crave and that is Cardava Turon.Cardava Turon is basically turon inspired product but with an exciting twist. As we all know that one of the best businesses to venture into nowadays when it comes to food are the siomai carts. Almost everywhere in the city you can see and buy siomai. Thus, we incorporated the well-known siomai to our product by producing our Cardava Turon in siomai style. Cardava Turon is a turon that looks like a fried siomai. In this case we would have our target market to be thrilled and puzzled by looking the appearance of our Cardava Turon. Fried siomai turon Let’s try it!We’re not done yet! We had not just uniquely and creatively modify the turon into siomai style we had also improved the taste and flavor of our turon,  Cardava Turon Original Flavors.We had come up with three different delicious tastes:1.Banana Classic (Langka) Turon – inspired by our classic turon with langka or jackfruit inside. Let the classic taste of turon give you a different kind of experience by having it in siomai style (bite size) turon. 2.Banana Peanut Turon – Original concept, our delicious siomai style turon with grounded peanut inside that will add kick in every bite. Let the bits of peanut thrilled you as it gives you a different taste from the ordinary turon. 3.Cardava Turon Overload – Another original concept, these Cardava Turon with grounded peanuts, marshmallow, and the classic langka inside will definitely give you the taste that you will really enjoy and crave the moment you taste and try it. All three flavors will definitely give you an experience of eating turon more differently and more deliciously. Cardava Turon is certified DHA. Delicious, Healthy and Affordable. Indulge in every bite! Cardava Turon was styled as siomai not only because we want to attract our markets as siomai does, neither give our customer a twist of something different but because convenience is also our business. We want to give our Cardava Turon lover the convenience that they do not get from the ordinary turon. For the standard size of a turon was 5 to 7 inches that might cause inconvenience to some when eating, thus, we developed our Cardava Turon to be in siomai style so that it would become bite in sizes.This would give a lot of convenience to our market most especially those individual who can’t even consume the standard sized turon. Cardava Turon prices are 15php for four pieces and 30phpfor eight pieces comes in an eco-friendly box. It was price low because our pricing objective i s to penetrate the market as our product is the first of its kind. Extensive marketing strategies are to be expected for the company to gain recognition and familiarity.CARDAVA TURON . . . ANG SARAP! CERTIFIED DHA, DELICIOUS, HEALTHY and AFFORDABLE!INNOVATIVENESS, CONVENIENCE, GREEN MARKETING and FOR YOUR GOOD IS OUR BUSINESS.â€Å"Panlasa’y mananarap sa Cardava Turon!†2. MISSION STATEMENTâ€Å"Healthy Living, Healthy Eating† â€Å"Cardava Turon ang sarap! Panlasa’y siguradong mananarap!† Certified DHA, Delicious, Healthy and AffordableOur tagline which stated above says it all with regards to our mission statement, and that is to bring delightful taste to our consumers by providing them our very delicious delicacy—Cardava Turon. Also as our product is certified DHA, that is delicious, healthy and affordable which makes it even more appealing and attractive to the community. We will not just cater those who are looking for delicious merienda but we will also take into consideration those who are health and price conscious. Thus, our mission is not only to earn profit rather our main mission statement is to bring health and wellness to every individual which will not have to suffer on paying very high prices, enjoying delicious taste that are good for their health.VISION STATEMENTâ€Å"To be the leading and consistently number one on providing delicious, healthy and affordable delicacy—Cardava Turon.†We are envisioning our company to be the leading and consistently number one which provide certified delicious, healthy and affordable delicacy to wherever area we could reach for. This is in line with our statement of bringing health and wellness to all of our consumers. Because we believe that a healthy living is for everybody not just for the fortunate one. Thus, it is our commitment to provide deliciously healthy and affordable Cardava Turon.We will be directed to our company vision to be the leading and n umber one  provider of delightful delicacy.CARDAVA TURON NUTRITIONAL FACTSThere have been different kinds of banana which are known to be rich in potassium and other nutrients. But according to the Doctors of Ministry in Alternative Medicines or DMAM, Cardava (Saba) banana has the highest nutrients present. †¢Cardava has the highest content of nutrients because it has the deepest roots among other banana plants, of which can absorb more nutrients from the soil. †¢Because bananas are rich in potassium, they help the body’s circulatory system deliver oxygen to the brain. †¢Maintains a regular heartbeat and a proper balance of water in the body. †¢Helpful for reducing strokes and regulating blood pressure because of the way it promotes circulatory health.†¢Their abundance of vitamins and minerals, are a great source of natural energy. †¢Bananas are also ideal for eating during that midday lull when you feel tired and sluggish. Instead of drinking caffeine or having a sugary snack, bananas provide a level of energy that lasts longer without the dramatic crash caused by caffeine. †¢Help stop constipation because bananas have a certain type of fiber that helps to restore and maintain regular bowel functions. Bananas are a natural source for lessening the effects of constipation without causing other bowel problems such as diarrhea.†¢The natural ingredients in bananas and their ability to replenish the body’s vitamins make them an ideal way to reduce the effects of a hangover. †¢Bananas can help people who are trying to quit smoking. The B vitamins and other minerals that they contain reduce the physical and psychological effects of nicotine withdrawal. †¢Vitamin B6 can also minimize menstrual pains and regulates over all moods of women. †¢Because of their calming properties, pregnant women often eat bananas to combat their morning sickness. †¢Also help to replenish the body and restore a hea lthy blood glucose level. †¢Help regulate a pregnant woman’s temperature.†¢As a way to prevent and treat ulcers, bananas help reduce the acidity that some foods can leave in the stomach. †¢Help reduce the irritation of the digestive system by leaving a protective coating around the inner walls, making it a natural way to promote intestinal health as well. †¢They are  also a great way to get rid of heartburn. They act as a natural antacid and they quickly soothe the burn.Instead of eating an apple each day for optimum health, the adage should state that a â€Å"banana each day keeps the doctor away†. The banana health benefits far outweigh those of the apple because it has many more vitamins and nutrients than their round counterparts.3. BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT 3.1 National TrendsBasically the only national trend that can hinder the growth of Cardava Turon in the market is when the cardava (saba) banana supplies will be scarce for it is the main ingre dients to our product—Cardava Turon. There are some issues nowadays that talks about the becoming scarce of the said banana but still there are none facts that can prove the latter issue. Thus, Cardava Turon business is in good position and will expect continuous supply of raw resources. The launching of Cardava Turon could be a good indication to our economy and even internationally for we will cater products that are originally from the Philippines. Cardava Turon would strengthen the local banana economy rather than those that are being exported to the other countries. Thus, it will just show how the Philippines can be competitive and can be known worldwide.3.2 Industry AnalysisThe local banana industry at this present day is not as active as before because of the growing export business, though there are still businesses of banana industry such those farmers, wholesalers and retailers. With regards to merienda business specifically those who sells turon, there are a lot of small competition for we can see even at the street corner of Angeles City there are those who sell turon but because Cardava Turon is not just an ordinary turon which is definitely the first of its kind, we can say that we are not deeply affected of those vendors of turon.3.3 Market AnalysisSpecifically there are no markets for siomai style turon with delicious variances here in Angeles City and maybe the whole of the Philippines. However â€Å"turon† is being patronized here in the community, thus, those will be considered as the new market for Cardava Turon. There are still markets for turon that we could cater with.3.4 Competitor AnalysisCardava Turon will have to face and consider a lot of competition for it is not the only turon business in town, most especially even SM malls and Ayala Malls’ food courts are selling their own class of turon. But Cardava Turon is not just an ordinary turon; it is a turon with a lot of exciting twist. It is the first of its kind a nd none in the whole of Angeles City area are selling such turon with different flavors and in siomai style. Thus, Cardava Turon competition will be minimal.4. MARKETING PLAN4.1 SWOT ANALYSISThe table below shows the SWOT analysis of the resources and the environmental factors for Cardava Turon ®. Major SWOT analyses are provided for the company as well. Resource Analysis:ResourcesStrengthsWeaknessesMoneyCardava Turon products are low cost. Thus, low capital investment. MaterialsCardava Turon has a number of contacts that can supply the raw materials. MachinesNo equipment for making the Cardava Turon more efficiently. MethodsNumerous ways and methods for producing Cardava Turon are available. ManpowerInexperienced from selling to the company members. ManagementInsufficient management skills for the company members. Moment (Time)Any launching day for the Cardava Turon is perfect for it is a unique delicacy. And the company members are dedicated to work fulltime and effectively.Iden tifying Opportunities and Threats in the Environment:Factors in the EnvironmentOpportunitiesThreatsSocio-culturalPeople have the habit of having their daily merienda Technology and TechnicalNew technology and equipments could make the production process efficiently and effectively. EconomicThe purchasing power of the community has lowered because of the increasing price of some  necessities such oil, thus, an advantage for the increase in demand of Cardava Turon for it is priced affordably. NaturalScarcity of cardava banana can hinder the growth of Cardava Turon. PoliticalElection is fast approaching.Hence, a good indicator to promote Cardava Turon as their merienda when campaigning. Peace and OrderIn general, there is peace and order in the place of business. (HAU / Angeles City) Population TrendsThe population is increasing. More people mean more buyers who would want Cardava Turon. Government ProgramMicro-Small-Medium Enterprise program are being provided by the government. Car dava Turon may be able to avail of the assistance in the form of financing, technical and marketing. Global EnvironmentExporting Cardava Turon process could be lucrative venture.CARDAVA TURON SWOT ANALYSIS†¢Strength – Uniqueness, as we introduce our all-time favorite turon in deliciously different way. †¢Weakness – Familiarity, Cardava Turon an original and the first ever product of its own needed a lot of effort to gain recognition to the community. †¢Opportunities – Innovative Leadership, pioneering the innovative modification of turon. †¢Threats – Patent, as BW is the first in the market.4.2 OBJECTIVESCardava Turons’ strategic marketing and financial objectives will be used as direction for the growth of the company.4.2.1 Marketing Objective:†¢Positioned Cardava Turon to all of Angeles City community. †¢Achieved familiarity of Cardava Turons’ products and service. †¢Maintained strategic marketing effort for Cardava Turon as it is new in the market.4.2.2 Financial Objective:†¢Reached the targeted quota and sales daily, monthly and annually. †¢100% return on investment. †¢30% to 40% net profit. †¢Zero negative net profit.4.3 COMPETITIVE EDGE†¢Location is critical to success. Our store needs to be on Main Street or just off Main Street so we can take advantage of walk-by and drive-by traffic. We also need adequate parking to make shopping at our store convenient for drivers. And we will target to have concessions to the well-known canteen of HAU. †¢Convenience. Angeles City / HAU residents and visitors are willing to pay a little bit more for good food and the convenience. Our customers will purchase our food because it is authentic and delicious. †¢High quality. Focusing on high quality Cardava Turon will draw customers from the competition, as well as create a local market that has not existed before in Angeles City. If the prices are reasonable an d the food is good, we will have growth through repeat business.4.4 TARGET MARKET ANALYSIS SUMMARYOur main target markets are:†¢People who live and work in Angeles City / Holy Angel University, who are looking for quality merienda. †¢Surrounding businesses looking for a tasty merienda for their customers and staff. †¢International and domestic travelers visiting Angeels City / Holy Angel University. †¢Families looking for quality, affordable, home cooked merienda to take home and prepare for their families with ease. †¢People looking for a comfortable environment in which to enjoy their spare time eating our delicious Cardava Turon. †¢People looking for high quality, unique merienda.Each market segment consists of people who either live, work, or vacation in the Angeles City / Holy Angel University area. Each market will be seeking a store canteen that will meet their desire for authentic, healthy food, quality service, and a pleasant atmosphere.4.5 MAR KET SEGMENTATIONCardava Turon target market profile is segmented using different segmentation strategy.4.5.1 Geographic SegmentationThe main geographic target area for Cardava Turon is the whole of Angeles City and the nearby towns and cities.4.5.2Income / Occupation SegmentationBecause Cardava Turon are certified affordable we are segmenting our markets with middle to low income, though because of the quality product that we are offering even those who are high income earners will definitely patronize our products and services.4.5.3 Age Segmentation Cardava Turon is for all ages for as long as they will purchase the product. Our products are intended to those six years of age and above.4.5.4 Sex SegmentationCardava Turon is definitely not gender discriminatory. Everyone can taste and enjoy our deliciously healthy and affordable product.4.6 POSITIONINGWe intend to position our business not just as a manufacturer and distributor of products, but a partner bringing a high level custom er satisfaction and high level of service to the stores that we enter into business with. We will work with stores through delivering high quality products to significantly increase the sales and profitability of their food business. By doing this we expect to develop a strong loyalty among our customers.4.7 MARKETING MIX 4.7.1ProductCardava Turon main offering is the Cardava Turon itself, a fried siomai style turon that comes in three different delicious flavors: oBanana Classic (Langka) Turon – inspired by our classic turon with langka or jackfruit inside. Let the classic taste of turon give you a different kind of experience by having it in siomai style (bite size) turon. oBanana Peanut Turon – Original concept, our delicious siomai style turon with grounded peanut inside that will add kick in every bite. Let the bits of peanut thrilled you as it gives you a different taste from the ordinary turon. oCardava Turon Overload – Another original concept, these Car dava Turon with grounded peanuts, marshmallow, and the classic langka inside will definitely give you the taste that you will really enjoy and crave the moment you taste and try it. Our main ingredients Cardava Turon products are cardava banana, siomai Turonper, brown sugar, cooking oil (for deep frying), jack fruit, peanut, and marshmallow. All ingredients are of high quality and certified healthy or of good nutritional facts.4.7.2PromotionBecause Cardava Turon is the first of its kind extensive promotional effort will be done to gain recognition and familiarity to the whole of Angeles City.†¢Advertising Highly appealing and attractive tarpaulins, posters and flyers will be strategically positions to those high traffic volume areas in the vicinity of Angeles. We will also invade online advertising wherein we will advertise Cardava Turon to some of the well-known networking sites as of at present day. Newspaper, television and radio commercial will also take into consideration. We will have a small advertising budget, devoted exclusively to trade publications designed to reach buyers and owners of upscale independent food stores. The objective of our trade advertising will be too limited to reinforcing the image of our company and the exciting taste of our products. All ads will be four-color and between 1/4 and 1/8 page in size. Each ad will prominently feature our logo and a bright, colorful, mouthwatering changing display of Cardava Turon products. We will also work with our retailers to obtain co-op advertising funds for their own local advertising.†¢Sales Promotion Initially we will do free tasting for the first two days of Cardava Turon launching; this is to let all the Angeleneos experience the delightful taste and flavors of Cardava Turon.†¢Personal Selling Highly qualified salesperson that provides superior customer service will be our front liners to provide our buyers experience that they would want to experience again and again, thus, establishing customer loyalty. Our primary sales method is face-to-face selling by our friendly salesperson.†¢Point of Purchase / Product Display Just the smell of our product prospective buyers will definitely get curious and crave for our Cardava Turon. We will see to it that our product will be cooked amazingly delicious and presented mouth-watering.†¢Publicity Because our entire products at Cardava Turon are certified deliciously healthy and affordable, thus, our campaign of â€Å"Healthy Living, Healthy Eating† would be our most effective way to publicized Cardava Turon. We will send news releases to trade magazines to try to get product or company feature coverage in front of the eyes of buyers and retailers. We will also issue a few generic press releases about Cardava Turon that our retailers can use to try to obtain publicity coverage for their stores in local publications. Lastly, we shall have a quarterly newsletter for retailers that we are currently se rving or hope to be serving. We anticipate sending 1,000 copies of the news release out our first year and gradually increasing to 2,000 copies by our third year. In the newsletter we will highlight not just our products, but also display ideas and success stories of stores who increased their Cardava Turon sales.†¢Trade Shows We will have a small booth or table top display at national conventions each year, including the SMX convention Center at the SM Mall of Asia. We will emphasize not just our certified deliciously healthy and affordable products but the superior customer/retailer satisfaction that we are providing. We will also provide limited funds for display space for our salesperson at regional trade shows that they attend. Typically we will pay for one table top display.4.7.3Place / Channel of Distribution Cardava Turon is a manufacturing firm which will serve as direct seller and retailer. Our main place of distribution would be the whole of Angeles City. We will str ategically position our stalls/kiosk to places of high traffic volume. We will also partner to some of the famous restaurants for our Cardava Turon to be their featured dessert of the week; concession to some of the well-known mall food courts and even partner with some of the university canteen here in Angeles.4.7.4Pricing Rigorous pricing strategies for Cardava Turon’s product were to be expected. All products will be priced in accordance with our buyers’ purchasing power not compromising the quality of our products. Having been priced to what the buyers’ could avail; Cardava Turon will definitely have a share of market.†¢Pricing Objective and Method Used Because Cardava Turon is new and first of its kind, our number one objective for pricing is to penetrate the market by pricing our products at low price. In which it could lead to the increase of market share and familiarity of Cardava Turon. Taking into account the pricing objective, demand determining, cost estimation and competitors’ costs, prices and offers analysis Cardava Turon will be using a combination of methods. Value pricing will be weighted more. 4.8 CONTROLSCardava Turons’ Marketing Plan purpose is to serve as a guide for the organization. The following areas will be monitored to gauge performance: †¢Availability of supplies †¢Expenses †¢Superior Customer Satisfaction †¢Revenue / ProfitSTRATEGY and IMPLEMENTATION SUMMARY Our strategy will exploit our advantages over the competition (location, convenience, and high quality) with carefully-tracked milestones for growth.MARKETING STRATEGY Our main marketing strategy would be the most effective and no cost at all strategy, that is the use of the word of mouth, for Cardava Turon is considered the best new exciting delicious merienda in town, making the word of mouth more effective. We will also advertise our product to some of the most famous social sites on the net which are Facebook, twi tter and the like.SALES STRATEGY Cardava Turon's Market most important sales strategy is developing an environment in which customers will return time-after-time because our market provides knowledgeable, friendly staff, quality products, and a comfortable atmosphere that fills their needs. When customers visit our store / retailers, they will know they are entering a clean facility with the best service in the industry. Our pricing strategy will focus on providing high quality products, and services at a fair priceSTRATEGIC ALLIANCES Cardava Turon's Market will work to form strategic alliances with local businesses, including: campus canteens, local mall food courts, and restaurants. We will also form relationships with local produce growers and artists to customize the food items we sell and enhance our presence in the community.MARKETING Initial marketing efforts for opening will be geared towards generating name recognition and making a clear distinction between Cardava Turon's and other local competitors. Follow-up marketing programs will encourage repeat visits and assist customers in the understanding, appreciation, and preparation of our products.SALES and PRICING We will gear prices towards our competitors in the nearest cities and online, with a small â€Å"convenience† increase for offering them locally. This will offset our distribution costs. Our emphasis on consistently good service, from special orders, will make new customers repeat customers. We mean business as we introduce Cardava Turon to the market but we don’t just want to be profitable we also wanted to have a share on our market. This is why we will penetrate the market by pricing our product very affordable. †¢15php – 4pcs of Cardava Turon†¢30php – 8pcs of Cardava Turon in an eco-friendly take home box.ALLIANCES and DISTRIBUTION †¢Cardava Turon's Market will aggressively pursue relations with local mall’s food courts, restaurants (featu red dessert of the week), and local school canteens (most specifically HAU canteen’s). †¢Our specific target for the distribution of our product is having a partnership not later at the end of this school year to some of the most well-known canteen here in the campus (HAU). We will partner to those canteen in order for our product to gain recognition from the community of HAU. †¢And as the coming year approaches we will extend our effort to partner with the local mall food courts, thus, we will introduce Cardava Turon to all of Angeles City. †¢After having partner to some of the local canteens and food courts we will established our own food cart or kiosk for Cardava Turon products in this way we can more concentrate on selling our products.SALES FORECAST The following assumptions illustrate our conservative sales forecast. Assumptions: The average item sold in the market will cost 15php/single order. †¢Php15.00/average sale x 100 people/day x # of days in a week x # of campus canteen partner (slow season). †¢Php22.50/average sale x 200 people/day x # of days in a week x # of campus canteen partner (busy season).KEYS TO SUCCESS The keys to success for Cardava Turon's Market include: †¢Reputation: Every customer visiting our store will want to return and will recommend us to their friends and family. Word of mouth marketing will be a powerful ally for our business. †¢Superior Customer Service: Knowledgeable, friendly service will be of the utmost importance. †¢Location: Provide an easily accessible location for customer convenience. †¢Product/Environment: Offer a variety of high quality foods, sold at a fair price in a clean, authentic, comfortable environment. †¢Convenience: Our customers will experience the convenience in eating our product that they had never been experienced before.5. MANAGEMENT TEAM and ORGANIZATION PLAN 5.1 Management Team The Company will be managed by the ten founding partners, wh ose individual area of expertise covers many of the functional aspects of the business. Jose Carlo Dizon will serve as the President of the Company, and will be responsible for Product Selection and Sales & Marketing. Nikki S. Barrientos will be the Vice President, in charge of Administration. She will be responsible for customer service, accounting, shipping and the general administration of the business. Mary Jane Narciso will be the Chief Operating Officer, and will be responsible for maintaining close relationship with all our retailers/concessionaires. Kresta-An Tanhueco and Jeiel Feliciano will serve as the area managers that are responsible for monitoring operations of all stalls/kiosk of Cardava Turon. Aldrian Soriano and Mark Cunanan will be the head of Research and Development Department which are accountable for producing new ideas and variances for the growth of all Cardava Turon products. Kevin Colinares as the Public Relations Officer will be in charge for the publicit y and good relations of the company to the whole of Angeles City community. Nikki S. Barrientos will be in charge with Banana Wrap logistics, inventory and suppliers relations. Lastly, to be responsible for all employee related issues will be Jose Carlo Dizon as the HR Manager.All founders are dedicated of doing their job effectively and efficiently which will bring Cardava Turon to its overwhelming success.5.2 Organizational Chart5.3 Key Personnel Every stall of Cardava Turon will be staffed by our dedicated and skillful front liner which includes the kiosk/stall supervisor who will be in charge of the overall operations of the kiosk. Together with the stall supervisor are the two all-around salespersons who will perform cashiering which includes order taking and assembling, cooking all ordered products, and maintaining inventory and cleanliness through-out the entire operations.Qualifications Required: †¢Stall Supervisor – Graduate of any four-year business management related courses or high school graduate with a minimum of two years work experience as a food stall/kiosk supervisor. †¢Sales Associate – this includes being the cashier, cooked, stock custodian and the salesperson. All associate would be at least college level with basic knowledge in accounting, cooking, inventory, and in sales. High school graduate will be considered with a minimum one year work related experiences.All stall supervisors upon the start of their work at Cardava Turon are qualified for any other promotions depending on the availability of the vacant position and their performance as a whole. Same as to all Sales Associate, with which are also qualified for any promotion depending on their performances.6. PRODUCTION and OPERATIONS PLAN 6.1 Production Process The production process for producing our product Cardava Turon will include the preparation of all raw materials/ingredients such the peeling of cardava banana and cutting it into cubes, preparing siom ai Turonper as the Turonper of the said product, pre-heating of deep fryer for cooking high quality Cardava Turon. All extra condiments and ingredients will be prepared as well, the sugar (brown) to be used, grounded peanut for Banana Peanut Turon, the langka for the Banana Classic Turon, and the marshmallow for the Banana overload.Step by step processes are as follows: 1.Peeling and dicing into cubes of cardava banana. 2.Turon using siomai Turonper and putting the flavors such grounded peanuts and the classic langka. 3.Rolling the Turonped product into the brown sugar. 4.Deep frying until the product becomes golden brown. (10-20 seconds) 5.Cooling and filtering of excess oil. 6.Package depending on the customer orders. (4pcs. or 8pcs.)6.2 Product/Service DeliveryIn order to deliver high quality, personalized service we will carefully select all employees–especially stall supervisor and sales associate who will deal directly with customers. Jose Carlo is currently interviewin g candidates for sales associate. We will carefully review references from past employers or manufacturers and from retailers whom these sales associate have served. We will also make sure that each employee understands our way of delivering quality product/service to each customer. We will have immediate back-up support available by phone from our office for more difficult product/service issues. And we will give employees enough latitude so that they can respond immediately to almost all customer requests or complaints.6.3 Customer ServiceWe intend to prioritize customer service and make it a key component of our marketing programs. We believe that providing our customers with what they want, when and how they want it, is the key to repeat business and to word-of-mouth advertising. Not only will we train our employees to deliver excellent service, we will give them the flexibility to respond creatively to client requests. In addition, we will continually monitor our clients' level of satisfaction with our service and products through surveys and other convenient feedback opportunities. Initially we expect to have few enough accounts so that Mary Jane and Kevin can handle all customer/retailer service issues.As our business grows we intend to hire additional customer service people one at a time and pay a premium over market labor rates to attract and retain quality help. Shipping problems are a huge issue with the firms that we compete with largely because they insist on using surface shipping methods to keep their costs down to charge low prices to keep their mass merchant accounts happy. We intend to use air freight to export our products to the neighbor countries. This will add to our costs. But because we want to penetrate the international market it makes more sense for us. It  will also allow us to have much thinner inventories in our warehouse without risking stocking out.6.4 FacilitiesWe plan to lease small office space for the mean time as Cardava Turon is still starting. The said office space will be used by the ten co-founders as they work together for the fast growth of Cardava Turon. The office space building is located in a busy industrial neighborhood, but because we do not intend to have customers visit us we have decided to lease a lower-rent location. For our stalls/kiosks they should be located in a high traffic volume area which could generate prospective buyers for all the products. We will utilize the spaces for all the stalls that could hold enough supplies for a week operations. Ten to twenty square meters would be the ideal stall/kiosk size.6.5 EquipmentsWe will need five computer sets initially to be used at the main office. Minimal office supplies will do for the company is still starting. Five telephone lines are also needed to be used for communicating to all staffs; retailers; and suppliers. The equipment to be used for the kiosk would be cash register for recording sales transactions, deep fryer to be u sed for cooking all Cardava Turon products, freezer for all perishable raw ingredients. Also we will provide food warmer to store all the cooked products and to be used for display purposes, small cabinets are to be used for non-perishable goods. Preparation table is also considered necessary when making Cardava Turon products including also all the necessary cooking tools and gadgets to make the operation efficiently.6.6 Work FlowAll personnel who are working at the main office will be working eight hours weekdays depending on the volume of their work. Office hours would be from 8:00am until 5:00pm, but flexible working hours will do also. Sundays will be their day-off and through Saturdays the office hours would only be half-day which is from 8:00am to 12:00noon. As to the stall/kiosk the operations would be from Mondays through Sundays, operations will start at 7:00am until 9:00pm though business hours will just start at 8:00am until  8:00pm.There will be three shifts in a day: the opener from 7:00am-3:00pm, the mid-shift from 10:00am-7:00pm and the closer from 1:00pm-9:00pm. Initially stalls will be manned by only three people who include a stall supervisor and two sales associate. The stall supervisor will be in charge of the scheduling. He can decide on his own on who would be assigned in the shifts, preferably the mid-shift will be the stall sup. So that he/she can monitor well the operations of their stall. As our business grows we intend to hire additional sales associate to make our operations even more efficient.6.7 Production RisksPreventive measures are to be implemented to lessen or decrease the possibility of being hurt and injured in the production of all Cardava Turon products. We will make sure that all employees especially the sales associate are properly trained with regard on the production or cooking of Cardava Turon. First aid kit will be provided to all Cardava Turon kiosks. Stall Supervisor will be responsible for checking all the ne cessary machines and equipments if they are working properly and effectively. Before and after the business operations, checklist will be provided to be accomplished by whoever was assigned to check the quality and performance of all goods, materials and equipments. This is to prevent unnecessary problems to occur.6.8 SuppliersBy the supervision of Nikki, all issues regarding suppliers of all the stalls/kiosk for Cardava Turon will be properly monitored. This includes checking the quality of all raw materials/goods. Delivery schedules will be monitored, as well as all the necessary issues concerning supplier relations and logistics.6.9 Inventory ManagementIn order for the inventory to be more accurate, there will be two types of inventory to be done. The first one is to be accomplished by all stall supervisors for each kiosk which is to be done daily. And the second type of inventory, the monthly inventory to be supervised by Kresta and Jeiel, which they will evaluate and check the accuracy of all the daily inventories. The  company will provide standard inventory checklist to be used by all Cardava Turon stalls/kiosks.6.10 Quality ControlEach store will offer nothing but freshly and quality Cardava Turon products. Standard procedure for preparation and cooking of the product will be well developed by our R&D team Aldrian and Mark. Arthur will be responsible for the high quality raw goods that are to be used. Camille will monitor all retailers’ compliance of Cardava Turon quality standards.

Analysis On Bharati Mukherjee English Literature Essay

Analysis On Bharati Mukherjee English Literature Essay In turn, Mukherjee lays claim to an America that is both constantly transforming, and transformed by, the new immigrant. As the title of her short stories collection â€Å"The Middle Man† and Other Stories (1988) suggests, each protagonist from a different part of the world functions as a mediator of cultures, negotiating the â€Å"two-way transformation† (Mukherjee, â€Å"AUP† 141) of either an expatriate or immigrant experience in America. That the collection won the National Book Critics Circle Award undeniably affirms the appeal of such a Maximalist narrative strategy professing to give an equal voice to each immigrant group. On further analysis, however, it is clear that Mukherjee’s representation of a fluid American (trans)national identity influenced by diversity is ultimately predicated on the foregrounding of differences. Despite Mukherjee’s call for America to go beyond multiculturalism in its treatment of new immigrants, her own postcolo nial immigrant subjectivity-inevitably shaped by her elite British and American educational background-remains aligned with white hegemony, which continues to hierarchize its immigrants on the bases of ethnicity, class and gender. After all, Mukherjee specifically reveals in Jasmine that â€Å"[e]ducated people are interested in difference† (33). Keeping Mukherjee’s explicitly stated literary agendas in mind, this chapter will attempt to examine the ironies in Mukherjee’s postcolonial subjectivity in the novel Jasmine and the two short stories â€Å"A Wife’s Story† and â€Å"The Tenant,† both from â€Å"‘The Middleman’ and Other Stories† collection. Radical alterity of India From the vantage point of a successful female intellectual in America, Mukherjee disavows India precisely because its repressive patriarchy severely limits women’s opportunities in life, insofar as the sanctity of women’s lives is largel y disregarded and constantly endangered. However, â€Å"feudal compliance was [precisely] what still kept India an unhealthy and backward nation† (Mukherjee, Jasmine 77). This necessitates that Mukherjee’s heroines break the vicious cycle of being locked into arranged marriages that technically seal their fates with violent subjugation. In Mukherjee’s short story â€Å"The Tenant,† Maya’s claim that â€Å"[a]ll Indian men are wife beaters† (99) may be an exaggeration, but the more disturbing revelation is that â€Å"the groom’s mother was absolute tyrant of the household† (Mukherjee, Jasmine 147) in India. Indeed, generations of Indian women have also been physically abusing female subordinates deemed to have transgressed patriarchal norms. Yet, when meted out to any woman who defends or is interested in the pursuit of an education, such domestic violence is clearly a violation of basic human rights, unjustified to an America t hat champions the inalienable rights of every individual to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. In Jasmine, Jyoti’s mother suffers strikes from her husband because she supports Jyoti’s aspiration to continue her studies and become a doctor. In the short story â€Å"A Wife’s Story,† Panna’s mother is beaten by her illiterate mother-in-law because she enrolled in French class at the Alliance Franà §aise. The fact that even these Brahmin wives are not spared the rod underscores that physical violence against women cuts across the entire caste system, denying all women personal and professional progress. These scenarios emphatically portray the radical alterity of India, insofar as it becomes utterly incomprehensible to Americans who privilege individualism and gender egalitarianism. Aligned with these values, Mukherjee attempts to consolidate her status approval from the American market by positioning herself â€Å"not as [an] advantaged in side[r] of Asian culture but as similarly disadvantaged as [her] Anglo readers in finding that Asian component bizarre, distasteful, and difficult to comprehend† (Shirley Lim, â€Å"AG† 161) as well. As Mukherjee reveals, it is necessary to give Jasmine â€Å"a society that was so regressive, traditional, so caste-bound, genderist, that she could discard it† (â€Å"IMC† 19) in exchange for a rebirth in America. In exposing the oppression inherent in India’s patriarchal structure, Mukherjee situates her decolonizing impulse as one that embraces emancipation in America, a land that seemingly affords women endless opportunities to attain self-actualization.

Biography as a writer Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Biography as a writer - Essay Example This research will begin with the statement that childhood is an interesting stage in life because it sets the foundation of what we will be as grown-ups. As a child, the researcher’s passion was reading and writing. Nothing ever passed the researcher’s sight without reading be it a signpost, newspaper, a piece of the old ragged magazine, or a torn piece of paper with writings on it. The researcher’s passion for writing developed as he grew up into a full-blown interest in writing shaped by several experiences. First, the author has grown up admiring his aunt’s writings, which a appear in a weekly magazine. The present research has identified that the researcher’s aunt has a segment where she discusses uncommon health issues affecting the society especially those living in low-income communities, and how they can go about addressing these health problems. This paper illustrates that the author draws inspiration from her passion and determination to expose untold health issues and give a solution to those suffering from such health conditions. Secondly, as the author grew up, they moved from town to town because of the nature of his father’s work. While going through several places the researcher experienced and noted interesting differences in cultures, a way of life among others that captured his attention. This essay discusses that this experience gave him more desire to write about his encounters in different towns.

The European Union is being successful in spite of itself and its Essay

The European Union is being successful in spite of itself and its skeptics - Essay Example Napoleon and Hitler had no better success than the Roman Empire and the staggering costs of the last two world wars was motive enough to inspire another more democratic solution. The fact that nations continue to apply for acceptance into the European Union (EU) and the fact that only one EU member has ever renounced its EU citizenship speaks for the effectiveness in unifying diverse and autonomous nations. This combined with the lack of war on the European continent despite major differences and the fall of the Soviet Union, demonstrates the pacifying influence of the EU. While the world wide press continues to coin gleefully cynical terms like Euro-Skeptics, Europhobiles, Euro-pessimists and Euro-cynics, the unification of Europe is an idea whose time has come. This union is maintaining peace. Regardless of all of the sovereignty issues, problems with democracies and economies...its fundamental reason for conception has been more or less maintained by standing as a pillar uniting the Continent of Europe rather than allowing it to dissolve into war. One of the ways that this peace has been maintained is through the creation and acceptance of European wide rules of law and economic criterium. The source of some criticism comes from younger ages groups disenchanted with unemployment issues. Seeking easy answers to their plight they have blamed the European Union on their situation. One potential pitfall to the unification of Europe is changing demographics of the continent as those with vivid memories of war pass on business and political leadership to a generation that doesn't remember what a real air raid drill was all about. The memory and fear of world war had a lot to do with the creation of the EU. New treaties and agreements will have to go beyond peaceful co-existence and address employment and social issues more directly than the original organizing policies have done if long term stability is to be maintained. With post World War II reconstruction proceeding to return Europe to a functioning collection of individual nations, the idea of a unified Europe rose to the top of the continental discussion as it had after World War I. "A number of European leaders in the late 1940s became convinced that the only way to establish a lasting peace was to unite the two chief belligerent nations - France and Germany - both economically and politically"(U.S. Central Intelligence Agency 2006). The Treaty of Amsterdam on the European Union (EU) which came into force on 1 May 1999 states that the EU: must be maintained and developed as an area of freedom, security and justice; (an area) in which the free movement of persons is assured; in conjunction with appropriate measures with respect to external border controls, asylum, immigration and the prevention and combating of crime. (Directorate-General for Justice, Freedom and Security of the European Commission, 2006) The European Commission has gained the ability to resolve international disputes peaceful because member nations have given up some of their autonomy for the greater benefits afforded its members in politics, economics as well as social structure. The EU -15 as they were referred to seem to have come to the Union for economic reasons according to most

Identify three ways that diversity impacts organizational policies Research Paper

Identify three ways that diversity impacts organizational policies - Research Paper Example This class of diversity can be defined in terms of â€Å"gender, race and ethnicity, and whether or not one is disabled† (Davidson, 2004, p. 4). Each of the classes has minorities that requires special treatment such as protection in an organization. Similarly, the need to recruit human resource with the organization’s most desired qualities encourages organizations to develop avenues of attracting both the majority and minority social groups. Organizations therefore develop policies that protects and encourage participation of minority groups. Such would include special consideration in procedures for recruitment, selection, and even employee management. Diversity in an organization also reflects on the organization’s image in the society, a factor that can influence market control due to the society’s reaction to the organization’s composition by social factors. This means that organization’s policies will aim at promoting diversity in orde r to obtain a diversified quality human resource and a strong corporate image that is representative of the organization’s market. Social aspects therefore influence an organization’s policy through the need for quality input that may be hidden in a minority social class or through the need to relate with different social classes for corporate image (Davidson, 2004). Diversity also influences an organization’s policies through legal requirements to which organizations are bound. Anti discrimination laws for instance protects groups from discrimination based on their nature such as gender, race, sex and age among others. As a result, an organization’s policy must be consistent with legal provisions for fair treatment of individuals from different social groups. Formulation and implementation of policies must therefore take care of interest of every group in an organization in order to

Relection Portfolio Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Relection Portfolio - Essay Example Some of the aspects are given importance in schools are active listening, asking questions, helping others by responding to their needs, sharing knowledge and finding what others think and share each other’s view points. The basic idea behind this is to create a healthy mutual understanding behind the team members so that strong team can be developed. In doing so, each and every students become aware of the factors which are required to build a strong team. The author then goes on to discuss the main idea behind doing these activities. She says that by doing this the students develop a sense of inter-dependence. This is very essential for building up a team. There are two types of interdependence. Goal interdependence where the group members can only achieve their goals when each and every team members have achieved their’s and resource interdependence where the each of the member need the resources of each and every member to complete the task assigned to them. In this article the author talks about building up one’s self confidence. He start the article in a very interesting manner by stating that even confident people make mistakes but the difference lies in the fact that they are more focused on their strength and ten to neglect their weakness. We should not get confused by affirmations as they attempt to fool the mind in thinking and believing something that we are not. Thus a person might be fooled to believe into something which is not in reality. So the main idea behind building up the self confidence to be aware of our strengths and stay focused on them. In this case, we should also focus on building up a good level of concentration because when person has a strong concentration; it becomes difficult to divert him or her from their path. Several methods of building up their self confidence have been discussed in the later part of the article. The author says that self confidence is more like a set

Tuberous Sclerosis A Rare Disease Research Proposal

Tuberous Sclerosis A Rare Disease - Research Proposal Example Definition of Tuberous Sclerosis Tuberous Sclerosis is one of the genetic and rare disorders being closely monitored and evaluated by the Office of Rare Diseases Research (ORDR) under the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (ORDR, 2009). It was thereby defined as â€Å"a genetic disorder characterized by the growth of numerous noncancerous (benign) tumors in many parts of the body† (ORDR, 2009, par. 1). The definition provided by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Strokes (NINDS) more comprehensively identified the affected parts of the body, to wit: â€Å"Tuberous sclerosis--also called tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) - is a rare, multi-system genetic disease that causes benign tumors to grow in the brain and on other vital organs such as the kidneys, heart, eyes, lungs, and skin. It usually affects the central nervous system and results in a combination of symptoms including seizures, developmental delay, behavioral problems, skin abnorma lities, and kidney disease† (NINDS, 2012, par. 1). Both definitions classify this disorder as genetic and manifested through multiple growths of specifically identified tumors in different parts of the body. Causes Since the disease is classified under genetic and rare disorder, its cause is thereby traced through inheritance (PubHealth Med, 2010). As disclosed, â€Å"changes (mutations) in two genes, TSC1 and TSC2, are responsible for most cases of the condition. Only one parent needs to pass on the mutation for the child to get the disease. However, most cases are due to new mutations, so there usually is no family history of tuberous sclerosis† (PubHealth Med, 2010, pars. 2 & 3). This means that although most cases have identified the cause to be directly handed to the sibling from even one parent, there have been cases where both parents did not carry a defective gene but new mutations were manifested. Known through a process called â€Å"gonadal mosaicism. These p atients have parents with no apparent defects in the two genes that cause the disorder. Yet these parents can have a child with TSC because a portion of one of the parent's reproductive cells (sperm or eggs) can contain the genetic mutation without the other cells of the body being involved† (NINDS, 2012, par. 8). Symptoms The symptoms for this illness were categorized into three: skin symptoms, brain symptoms,and other symptoms, and are hereby detailed as follows: (1) skin symptoms include: areas of the skin that are white (due to decreased pigment) and have either an ash leaf or confetti appearance; red patches on the face containing many blood vessels (adenoma sebaceum); and raised patches of skin with an orange-peel texture (shagreen spots), often on the back; (2) brain symptoms include: developmental delays, mental retardation, seizures; and (3) other symptoms include: pitted tooth enamel, rough growths under or around the fingernails and toenails, rubbery noncancerous tu mors on or around the tongue (PubHealth Med, 2010). Genetic Make-Up The explanation provided by Howell (n.d.) on the genetic analysis of this illness clearly and explicitly illustrated the mutation in one of two identified genes, the â€Å"TSC1 gene is located on chromosome 9q34 and the TSC2 gene on chromosome 16p13† (Howell: Gene Analysis, n.d, par. 1). The illustrations are hereby presented as

In what ways does Kathryn Bigelow undermine the conventions of action Essay

In what ways does Kathryn Bigelow undermine the conventions of action cinema Use Point Break as your example and be sure to incorporate the discussions of critics that were assigned to read - Essay Example The scenes which include skydiving are greatly done to make one wonder how Bigelow managed to shoot these scenes at the time (Benson-Allott 3). Point Break is considered an unconventional film due to the pair of actors that Bigelow employed. During the 80’s and the early 90’s, action film were considered to employ more male masculine actors. The likes of Arnold Schwarzenegger, Steven Segul, Claude Van Damme, Sylvester Stallone, and Chuck Norris. The action film genre was characterized by huge and masculine figures during this period. The likes of Jet Li and Tom Cruise were lighter, smooth, faster action figures. In Keanu Reeves and Patrick Swazey, Bigelow managed to use Point Break in the transformation of Hollywood’s action film from masculine figures to smooth, intelligent crime busters (Benson-Allot 4). Sean Redmond, makes three claims about Katherine Bigelow and Point Black that shows her an unconventional approach to action film. While most critics look at Bigelow’s approach to film as Political, genetically transgressive and feminist, Point Break did not reflect the radical approaches of ideology that Bigelow employed in The Hurt Locker (2009) and the most recent Zero Dark Thirty (2012). In Point Break, Raymond sees Bigelow as founding a new subculture of FBI in action film. Raymond insists that Bigelow showed her political ideology in Point Break. Although the scripts of the movie already existed before Bigelow became the director, it was hard to imagine that the likes of Keanu Reeves and Swazey would make the set (Redmond 4). Redmond sees Bigelow as a radical because in Point Break, the film does not follow the political order which valued lifestyle and counter-culture values. The subculture of thieves who are surfers, led by Bodhi is exalted in the work. The FBI ethos are abandoned by the main character, John Utah, when he is undercover. He is drawn into the life style of this surfer criminal gang.

Introduction to Organisations and Management Assignment

Introduction to Organisations and Management - Assignment Example The team building effort and work of both the organisations have been cited by mentioning the important features that played a significant part in those aspects. The management and leadership approach of these companies are explained in detail. The paper also contains the details of organisational culture of both the organisations. 2.0 External Environment and Organisational Structure Critical Comment Organisational structure and organisational design assist an organisation to organize the people and task in order to meet the goals and objectives of an organisation. Theories The hierarchical structure is pyramid in its form. In the hierarchical structure, president is placed at the top followed by ‘vice president’ or ‘senior managers’ and below this level there are a number of management layers and maximum employees are placed at the bottom level of the pyramid. Each of these people has several people reporting to them. The number of people increases at each level down the structure. The jobs in the hierarchical structure are categorised by function into various departments in the organisation (Reference for Business, 2011). Source: (Tutor 2u, n.d.). Network structure refers to â€Å"the arrangement of the differentiated elements that can be recognised as the patterned flows of information in a communication network†. The virtual organisation utilises electronic mail in order to share information as well as coordinate their work. The use of email permits the workers to maintain their identity without a shared physical setting and facilitates existence of a group without evident participants (Ahuja & Carley, 2001). Contrast The organisational structure of Watsons Engine Components is out of fashion and possesses hierarchical structure. Though hierarchical structure provides advantages in an organisation, Watsons Engine Components faced problem in their organisational structure due to various reasons. The communication which took place in each department was not effective and rivalry arose in the organisation as each department took decision based on their own interest rather than the interest of the whole organisation. The increased bureaucracy created an obstruction towards their endeavour of organisational change; and while responding to the clients, maximum time was required. Since there were a numbers of layers in the hierarchy, it entailed the company to increase its cost (Know How, n.d.). H & M Consulting is an organisation with network based organisational structure since a group of people interact by means of interdependent task for the attainment of common goals. The virtual organisation is geographically distributed as the members in the organisation work for common interests and goals. As it is a virtual organisation, it involves high level of informal communication. Due to deficient formal rules, procedures, clear reporting relationships and norms, there is a requirement of more extensive inform al communication (Ahuja & Carley, 2001). External Environment PESTEL Analysis Comment Critically Various factors are present in the external environment that influences managers to take decision. The analysis of various factors can be done by using the PESTEL model. Theory The model of PESTEL analysis involves political, economic, social, technological, environment and legal. Political factors denote the

Dog Fighting Essay Example for Free

Dog Fighting Essay Fights between two or more animals have always been popular spectacles. Dog fighting is one of the most in-humane types of animal cruelty out there today; unfortunately pit bulls have been caught in the wrath of it all. Dog fighting is an animal abuse issue. Pit Bulls happen to be the breed most used in dog fights. But if Pit Bulls did not exist, dog fighting would still take place. There is no quenching the blood lust of human ‘kind’. Brutality against animals in the form of staged matches or fights between animals or even between man and animal is an activity almost as old as man himself – it was in existence long before the Pit Bull. History The original, old-time bulldog was used for all manner of stock-related work, particularly as a catch dog: used by the butcher to manage unruly bulls, and by the hunter for help in catching and holding wild boar and other game. The sport of bull baiting became popular in England, having arisen from these functional jobs that the bulldog performed for humans. The modern bulldog breeds descended from these dogs and those re-created through breeding programs include: alapaha blue blood bulldog, American bulldog, aussie bulldog, banter bulldogge, English Bulldog, French bulldog, Olde English Bulldogge, Olde Boston Bulldogge, and Victorian Bulldog. All of these breeds have kept close to the original type and traits of the ancient bulldogs, even when adapting to their local living conditions (Luca, 2010). Pit Bulls are descendants of the original English bull-baiting dog—a dog that was bred to bite and hold bulls, bears and other large animals around the face and head. Bulldogs were bred to hang on without releasing their grip, until the animal was exhausted from fighting and from loss of blood. When baiting large animals was banned in the 1800s, people then started to fight their dogs against each other instead (ASPCA, 2013). Treatment. With fighting Pit Bulls, they are raised in an environment that reinforces and maintains fighting behavior. All fighting dogs are conditioned from a very early age to develop what dog-fighters refer to as â€Å"gameness. † The scope and method of training varies dramatically depending on the level and experience of the dog-fighter. Dogs are run on the treadmills to increase cardiovascular fitness and endurance. Dogs are put on a manmade machine is called a cat mill or jenny also. Jenny: Apparatus that looks like a carnival horse walker with several beams jetting out from a central rotating pole. The dogs are chained to one beam and another small animal like a cat, small dog, or rabbit, is harnessed to or hung from another beam. The dogs run in circles, chasing the bait. Once the exercise sessions are over, the dogs are usually rewarded with the bait they had been pursuing (Gibson, 2005). People that so called train pit pulls for fighting will also have a spring hanging down from a pole to which a rope, tire, or animal hide is affixed that the dogs jump to and dangle from for extended periods of time. This strengthens the jaw muscles and back legs. The same effect is achieved with a simpler spring loaded apparatus hanging from tree limbs. A variation of the spring pole is a hanging cage, into which bait animals are placed. The dogs repeatedly lunge up toward the cage (Gibson, 2005). Granted these people think they are real dog trainers, they will take care of the dog’s health to a certain extent. Dogs are given vitamins, supplements and drugs to condition them for or to incite them to fight. Commonly utilized vitamins, supplements, and drugs include: iron/liver extract; vitamin B-12; Magnum supplement; hormones; weight-gain supplements; speed; steroids and cocaine. The dogs are trained against one another and against older, more experienced dogs. In the early stages of training, the dogs are incited to lunge at each other without touching and engage in quick, controlled fights called â€Å"rolls† or â€Å"bumps. † Once the dogs appear match ready, they are pitted against stronger dogs to test their â€Å"gameness† or tenacity in the face of exhaustion and impending defeat. If the dogs pass the test, they are deemed ready to fight. Types of Dog Fights All across the country, humans abuse dogs in heinous ways. From nonchalant, impromptu ‘street fights’ to the large-scale organized matches held on a regular schedule at set locations, dog fighting still occurs every day. Most law enforcement experts divide dog fight activity into three categories: street fighting, hobbyist fighting and professional activity. Street fighters engage in dog fights that are informal street corner, back alley and playground activities. Stripped of the rules and formality of the traditional pit fight, these are spontaneous events triggered by insults, turf invasions or the simple taunt, My dog can kill yours. Street fights are often associated with gang activities. The fights may be conducted with money, drugs or bragging rights as the primary payoff. There is often no attempt to care for animals injured in the fight (ASPCA, 2013). Some of the dogs are thrown out the car on the side of the road, left to die. Worst case scenario the dogs are killed immediately with a close range shot from a gun to the head. Hobbyist fighters are more organized, with one or more dogs participating in several organized fights a year as a sideline for both entertainment and to attempt to supplement income. They pay more attention to care and breeding of their dogs and are more likely to travel across state lines for event (ASPCA, 2013). Last but not least Professional fighters. Who would even label themselves as a Professional dog figh ter? People do; Professional dogfighters often have large numbers of animals (as many as 50 or more) and earn money from breeding, selling and fighting dogs at a central location and on the road. They often pay particular attention to promoting established winning bloodlines and to long-term conditioning of animals. (ASPCA, 2013) Punishment and Prevention Dog fighting, despite its felony status in all 50 states, is still a grave concern to animal advocates. Although the Michael Vick dogfighting case, and his recent release from home detention, have focused the national spotlight on dogfighting cruelties, dogfighting has long been a thriving underground industry across the country in both urban and rural areas (society, 2011). Those who make dog fighting a pit bull issue do the dogs a grave disservice. A new bill in the Senate would outlaw spectators’ willful attendance at organized animal fights and impose penalties for bringing a minor to an animal fight. This bill has bipartisan support (society, 2011). The Federal Animal Welfare Act prohibits the interstate transportation of dogs for fighting purposes. A pending federal bill, S. 382, would create the Animal Fighting Prohibition Enforcement Act of 2005. The Act would amend the United States Code, making it a crime for any person to knowingly sponsor or exhibit an animal in an animal fighting venture if any animal in the venture was moved in interstate or foreign commerce. Additionally, it would be unlawful for any person to knowingly sell, buy, transport, or deliver, or receive for purposes of transportation, in interstate or foreign commerce, any dog or other animal for purposes of having the dog or other animal participate in an animal fighting venture. Finally, it would be a crime for any person to knowingly use the mail service of the United States Postal Service or any instrumentality of interstate commerce for commercial speech promoting an animal fighting venture except as performed outside the limits of the states of the United States. Penalties for violations of the Act would include a fine, up to two years imprisonment, or both. The Act would repeal any conflicting provisions of the Animal Welfare Act (Gibson, 2005). If a person see’s or suspect dog fighting they should not hesitate to report the owner to the authority. Conclusion These dogs are VICTIMS in every sense of the word. Exploited, abused, and tortured for human gain, Pit Bulls are innocent beings caught up in a tragic societal issue. The American pit bull has two powerful enemies: the humane groups working for his extinction, and the modern dog fighter who are producing dogs of dubious genetics and characteristics while keeping them in negative headlines. Dogfighting is tremendously widespread and has reached epidemic levels in America’s urban communities. The devastating impact of social, economic and racial injustice in these communities that are exposed to such cruelty to animals. Are just the tip of the ice berg? America’s finest legal minds, political activists and social advocates have painstakingly dissected the culture of poverty in an attempt to understand the disproportionately high rates of crime, drug use, and social deviance in inner-city communities (Gibson, 2005).

Hinduism Paper Essay Example for Free

Hinduism Paper Essay Hinduism as coined by European influence, is the world’s third largest religion with nearly one billion followers, about 14% of the Earths human population. There are many that theorize Hinduism is not like any other religion that encompasses a particular way of life; that Hinduism is without a defined founder, deity, nor is Hinduism stuck to a specific system of theology. However, there are those that argue Hinduism is monotheistic because it does recognize the one supreme being of Brahman. Then some view Hinduism as Trinitarian because Brahman is visualized as one God with the three persons of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. Considering that Hinduism lacks a united belief system is a matter of scholarly theory based on the closest findings and perhaps the reason many people theorize that Hinduism is undefined religion. The makeup of Hinduism is of diverse beliefs and traditions of the 81% of Hindus residing in present day India translated from Vedic scripture that some scholars say date back to 10,000 BCE. The basic scriptures of Hinduism, referred as Shastras, are a collection of spiritual laws discovered by sages at different points in history. The Two types of sacred writings, Shruti (heard) and Smriti (memorized) comprise the Hindu scriptures. The sacred writings were passed on from generation to generation orally for centuries before they were written down in the Sanskrit language dating far back as 6,500 BC. The major and most popular Hindu texts include the Bhagavad Gita, the Upanishads, and the epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata, but there are fundamental core of beliefs shared by all Hindus. The basic core of Hinduism believes that there is only one supreme Absolute called Brahman, although it does not advocate the worship of any one particular deity. The gods and goddesses of Hinduism can amount to millions, all representing the many aspects of Brahman that indicate Hinduism is characterized by multiple deities. The most fundamental of Hindu deities is the Trinity of Brahma (creator), Vishnu (or Krishna, meaning creator) and Shiva (destroyer). Yet, the supreme God of any sub-God or sub-Goddesses is that of Brahma, a monotheistic approach that can be compared with many carnations to God in the Christian Bible such as Moses, Abraham, and Jesus and perhaps ignites much debate on the type of religion Hinduism is. However, there are other basic cores of beliefs that Hindus share. Amongst the core beliefs shared by Hindus is the desire for liberation from earthly existence in which Dharma, Samsara, Karma, and Moksha are facets in reaching liberation. Dharma encompasses ethics and duty within a Hindu’s life. Karma is the actions with in one’s life and the consequences for those actions. When Karma goes unfulfilled, Samsara is experienced through the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. The rebirth cycle is also known as reincarnation where a Hindu’s uncleansed soul cycles through life after life until the soul is cleansed enough to be with Brahman. While stuck in Samsara, the individual then becomes limited within time and space where monotony becomes a desire for escape from such misery. When a Hindu’s soul is cleansed enough to satisfy Brahman, Moksha is that escape from such earthly miseries. The desire for Moksha transformed Hinduism from a religion into a culture, but there is debate as to the cultural and societal influences that have made Hinduism vital to India. The cultural and societal influences of Hinduism is in a state of constant flow with the never ending possibilities as life on the earthly plane continues to flourish, yet there is debate on the historical significance that makes a Hinduism what it is today. The Aryan theory argues that Hinduism traces back to the Indus valley civilization of 4,000-2,200 BCE and was influenced by many Aryan Indo-European tribes who brought with them the religion of Vedism around 1,500 BCE. The Emerge theory challenges the Aryan invasion theory in stating the inconsistencies in timelines of Hebrew Scriptures and that of the Aryan invasion in comparison to the development of the four Veda that can be traced as far back as 6,500 BCE. Archeologists and religious historian have concluded through physical evidence of archeological finds along the Indus River and Indus valley show a continuality of the same group of people who traditionally developed Indian culture generation after generation with no evidence of Aryan influence. Another debate that continues amongst the modern day quarrel over theory is the caste system that dates back to 500 BCE. The Rig Veda defined four castes, or Varna’s; Brahmins were for religious leaders and educators, Kshatriyas for rulers and military, Vaishyas for farmers, landlords, and merchants, and Shudra for peasants, servants and workers. A fifth Varna was known as untouchables and anyone castigated from the Varna’s were the Dalit who were denigrated to pollutant jobs. According to Religioustolerance. org (2011), â€Å"although the caste system was abolished in 1949, it remains a significant force amongst Hindus throughout India. Aside from debate are the cultural rituals of the Hindu. According Living Religions by Mary Pat Fisher (2005), â€Å"there are sixteen rites prescribed in the ancient scriptures to purify and sanctify the person in his or her journey through life, including rites at the time of conception, the braiding of the pregnant mother’s hair, birth, name-giving, beginning of solid foods, starting education, investing boys with a sacred thread, first leaving the family house, starting studies of Vedas, marriage, and death. Sanatana Dharma is the current preferred title of what is better known as Hinduism where respect of one of the world’s oldest religions must be observed. The fact that there are many worshipped idols within Sanatana Dharma confuses the masses who contend that Hinduism is a polytheistic religion. Yet, it is the world overlooking the fact that other religions practice in denominations sectored by a difference of beliefs within the same core of beliefs.

Analysis of Global Economic Growth

Analysis of Global Economic Growth World economic growth 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 World Economic Outlook: According to the World Bank, world economic growth accelerated sharply in 2004. In aggregate, the year 2004 has been the healthiest year for developing countries since the last three decades. East Asian countries have come out of the 1997 crisis and are now performing well. The ongoing economic boom in China as well as the surge in activities registered in Japan were major factors in promoting growth in the region. Latin American countries and Sub-Saharan Africa also had a better year. This performance reflects a fortuitous combination of long-term secular trends built on a foundation of better macroeconomic management and an improved domestic investment climate converging with a cyclical recovery of the global economy. There were however some lingering imbalances in the global economy associated with the rising twin deficits in the United States, a delayed recovery in Europe, coupled with high and volatile oil prices, and questions about the path of Chinas economy that might constitute risks to the pace of growth in developing countries over the medium term. Worlds economic growth is likely to slow down in 2005 with a projected rate of 3.2%. Several factors are likely to contribute to the slower growth. It is believed that the investment cycle in the US has peaked, therefore resulting in a slowdown in growth. Furthermore, world demand has far exceeded world supply, resulting in a substantial increase in oil and other commodity prices, therefore reducing demand in other countries. Also, increases in interest rates are likely to slow the investment growth. The US is likely to finance its large budget deficits through tighter fiscal policies and in Europe countries will tighten their budgetary control to remain within the realm of Maastricht limits. Table 1: World economic outlook Real Growth Rate (%) 2002 2003 2004 2005* World 1.7 2.7 4.0 3.2 High Income Countries 1.3 2.1 3.5 2.7 Euro Zone 0.9 0.5 1.8 2.1 USA 1.9 3.0 4.3 3.2 Japan -0.3 2.4 4.3 1.8 Developing Countries 3.4 5.2 6.1 5.4 East Asia and Pacific 6.7 7.9 7.8 7.1 Latin America and Caribbean -0.6 1.6 4.7 3.7 Sub Saharan Africa 3.1 3.0 3.2 3.6 *projected figures Source: Global Economic Prospects 2005, World Bank. 1.2 Mauritian Economic Outlook: Mauritian economic growth in 2004 was positive and stabilised at 4.2%, slightly lower than the 4.4% recorded in 2003. On the one hand, internal demand constituted an important dragging factor, with a 6.3% growth in consumption expenditure compared to 4.5% in 2003. On the other hand, lingering uncertainties linked to the wave of change in the international economic order, uninterrupted trade liberalisation and the gradual loss of our long-standing preferences had a dampening effect on growth. The recent run-up in oil prices was also a constraining factor on economic buoyancy. Business confidence appeared to be quite timid in 2004. However, in spite of an overall deceleration in the rate of investment, which grew by 5.5%, compared to 10.0% in 2003, private sector investment grew by a high 13.2% as opposed to a negative 2.2% in 2003. Moreover, international perception about Mauritius remained positive, and foreign investments in hotels and ICT projects were at a relatively high level. Despite the stable growth rate, several macroeconomic and sectoral performances were relatively unfavourable. Savings rate was lower, registering 23.3% of GDP in 2004 against 25.4% in 2003. Inflation rate was higher in 2004, reaching 5.5%, as opposed to 3.9% in 2003. Overall external trade worsened, from a surplus of Rs. 2 billion in 2003 to a deficit on Rs. 3.9 billion in 2004, as a result of a very large increase in the merchandise trade deficit, from Rs. 8.4 billion to Rs. 15.7 billion. On a sectoral basis, industries were faced with a restricted margin of manoeuvre as a result of increasing international competition from lower-cost producers. Repercussions were felt in the EPZ sector, which registered a negative growth rate of 5% in 2004, following the deceleration of 6% in 2003. The tourism sector, in spite of its apparent dynamism, recorded a growth rate of only 2.6%, compared to 3.0% in 2003. Financial services experienced some inertia, with a low expansion of 1.0%, compared to a high 7.2% in 2004. However, the agricultural sector expanded by 5.1% in 2004, in contrast to the low 1.9% recorded in 2003 and the non-EPZ sector grew by 5.0% in spite of the gradual reduction of tariff protection. 2.0 ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE FOR 2004 2.1 National Accounts: Real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by a moderate 4.2% in 2004, compared to 4.4% in 2003. At current basic prices, GDP increased from Rs. 137.9 billion in 2003 to Rs. 151.7 billion. GDP per capita at current basic prices increased by 10.1%, to attain Rs. 122,984 in 2004. In US dollar terms, GDP per capita reached US$ 4,477, 11.7% higher than the previous year, when it reached US$4,010. It is worth noting also that at Purchasing Power Parity, GDP per capita in dollars was estimated at US$ 11,400 in 2003. For the second consecutive year, net income from the rest of the world was negative, with Rs. – 415 million in 2004, compared to Rs. – 833 million in 2003. Table 2: Output at current basic prices: Unit 2001 2002 2003 2004 Real GDP growth rate % +5.6 +1.8 +4.4 +4.2 GDP Rs. Million 117,720 125,260 137,868 151,725 Net income from abroad Rs. Million 393 396 833 415 GNI Rs. Million 118,113 125,656 137,035 151,310 GDP/capita Rs. 98,086 103,479 112,720 122,984 US$ US$ (PPP)* 3,380.9 9,609 3,462.2 10,810 4,010.0 11,400 4,477.4 n/a Exchange Rate, annual av. mid-rate Rs/$ 29.012 29.888 28.11 27.468 * GDP at Purchasing Power Parity provides a more reasonable international GDP comparison among nations.Source: CIA Fact Book 2004 While the EPZ sector continued to register negative growth rates for the third consecutive year, almost all other sectors recorded positive growth rates in 2004.   Non-EPZ grew by +5.0% in 2004, slightly lower than in 2003, when the growth rate was +5.8%. After high growth rates registered in 2002 (+7.6%) and 2003 (+11.1%) mainly due to high investment in building and construction works by the public sector, Construction grew by 3.1% in 2004. The distributive trade sector grew by 3.2%, slightly higher than the 3.1% recorded in the previous year. Transport and Communications activities expanded by 6.5% in 2004 as opposed to 6.1% in 2003. During the same period real estate, renting and business activities grew by 6.9% compared to 6.5% in 2003. Education, including services provided by public and private operators grew by 7.2% in 2004, compared to 5.3% in 2003, while health and social work expanded by 8.8% compared to 7.0% in 2003. Electricity, gas and water supply registered a growth of 4.2% as opposed to 4.6% in 2003. 2.2 Consumption Last years economic performance was once again influenced by internal demand. Total final contribution of consumption to GDP at market price was estimated at 77.3%, compared to 75.1% in 2003. Real final consumption expenditure, increased by 6.3% in 2004, compared to a 4.5% rise in 2003. This expansion in the consumption rate, which is much higher than the GDP growth rate, is clearly inflationary and has a negative direct impact on trade balance and budget deficit. It must be noted that private consumption represented 83.1% of total consumption in 2004, as opposed to 82.8% in 2003. A growth of 6.7% was observed in the consumption of households in 2004, against 4.9% in 2003. This is the highest growth rate recorded since 1989. On the other hand, the share of public sector consumption amounted to 16.9% of total consumption in 2004, showing a slight drop from the 17.2% observed in 2003. Public consumption grew by 4.4% compared to an increase of 2.6% in 2003. In 2004, the continued growth observed in total consumption has been largely sustained by the significant increase in average monthly income earnings of households. The average monthly earnings in large establishments grew by 12.8% between March 2003 and March 2004, to reach Rs. 11, 084. A general upward trend was observed in all industrial groups. The largest increase (+24%) was noted in public administration, following the implementation of the PRB in July 2004. Table 3: Consumption 2001 2002 2003 2004 Aggregate Final Consumption Household Central Government Rs b Rs. b Rs. b 97.0 80.2 16.8 106.6 88.3 18.3 118.3 98.1 20.2 135.1 112.2 22.9 Consumption as a % of GDP at MP % 73.4 75.0 75.1 77.3 Real Agg. Final Consumption growth o Household o Central Government % % % 3.3 3.0 4.7 3.2 3.3 4.1 4.5 4.9 2.6 6.3 6.7 4.4 Average monthly earnings (March) Rs. 8,701 9,159 9,826 11,084 Change in monthly earnings, Nominal % 6.4 5.3 7.3 12.8 2.3 Savings Investment Gross national savings, measured by the difference between Gross National Disposable Income and Total Consumption, increased in nominal terms by 1.8% to reach Rs 40.7 billion in 2004 from Rs 40.0 billion in 2003. Consequently, the saving rate, calculated as the ratio of GNS to GDP at market prices, showed a decline from 25.4% in 2003 to 23.3% in 2004. This decline results from an increase in both public and private expenditure. Table 4: Savings and investment 2001 2002 2003 2004 Gross National Savings (Rs. Billion) 37.6 38.7 40.0 40.7 Nominal Change (%) +2.8 +3.4 +1.8 GNS as a % of GDP at MP (%) 28.4 27.3 25.4 23.3 GDFCF (Rs. billion) Private Sector Public Sector 29.8 20.5 9.3 31.4 21.6 9.8 35.7 21.8 13.8 38.9 25.6 13.4 Real Change in GDFCF (incl aircrafts and vessels) , % +2.7 +1.9 +10.0 +5.5 Real Change in GDFCF (Excl. aircraft and vessels), % -2.6 +6.1 +7.9 +8.2 GDFCF as a % of GDP at MP 22.5 22.0 22.6 22.3 Investment, measured by the Gross Domestic Fixed Capital Formation (GDFCF), increased to Rs 38.9 billion in 2004 from Rs 35.7 billion in 2003. In real terms, including the purchase of aircrafts and marine vessels, total investment has followed an upward trend of 5.5% in 2004, but lower than the 10.0% growth recorded in 2003. It is interesting to note that net of the purchase of aircrafts and vessels, real investment grew by 8.2% in 2004, representing a better performance than in 2003, when it grew by 7.9%. Investment rate, measured as the ratio of GDFCF to GDP at market prices, has however gone down by 0.3%, to reach 22.3% in 2004 from 22.6% in 2003. Private sector investment continued to make up the bulk of GDFCF in 2004. It accounted for 65.6% of total investment in 2004, compared to 61.2% in 2003. This represented a real growth of 13.2% in 2004, after a negative growth rate of -2.2% in 2003. Higher private sector investment was accounted for by new hotels projects, where investment increased by 55.8% in 2004, as opposed to a negative growth of 21.8% in the preceding year. Moreover, there were additional investments in spinning mills and other projects in the EPZ sector, with an increase of 45.0% in 2004 as opposed to a negative 7.7% in 2003.Inversely, the share of public sector investment fell from 38.8% in 2003 to 34.4% in real terms in 2004. In fact, real public sector investment dropped by 6.6% in 2004, after a high 37.0% real growth in 2003, resulting from a record increase of 133.3% in investment in the construction sector in 2003. The resource gap, given by the difference between savings and investment, was again positive in 2004. However, there has been a significant contraction of 59.7%, from Rs. 4.3 billion in 2003 to reach Rs 1.7 billion in 2004, since investment increased more than savings. The direct consequence of this contraction is a further deterioration of the external account of goods and services. 2.4 Foreign Direct Investment In 2004, FDI inflow fell by 8.6% to reach Rs 1.79 billion against Rs 1.96 billion in 2003. A sharp contraction was observed in the banking sector, where only Rs. 121 million were invested in 2004, as opposed to a high Rs. 1.3 billion in 2003. In contrast, higher investments were recorded in the telecommunications sector in the wake of further liberalisation. Similarly, a total of Rs. 1.08 billion were invested in 2004 in other sectors of the economy, including IT, compared to only Rs. 485 million in 2003. The EPZ sector also attracted more FDI in 2004, with Rs. 248 million, compared to Rs. 77 million in 2003. The same upward trend was observed in the tourism sector, from Rs. 103 million in 2003 to Rs. 121 million in 2004. Table 5: Foreign Investment, Rs million 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 Foreign Direct Investment 7,265* 936 979 1966 1,796 EPZ 8 3 41 77 248 Tourism 10 0 100 103 121 Banking 0 600 316 1301 310 Telecoms 7204 0 0 0 38 Others 43 333 522 485 1079 Direct Investment Abroad 333 83 278 1166 909 Net Foreign Direct Investment 6,932 853 701 800 887 * Includes receipts from the sales of Mauritius Telecom shares to France Telecom of Rs 7.2 billion 1 Revised Estimates Concerning outward investment, a high figure of Rs. 1.2 billion was recorded in 2003. However, in 2004, it fell to Rs. 887 million. 2.5   Balance of Payments The overall balance of payments in 2004, measured as a change in foreign reserve assets excluding valuation changes of the Bank of Mauritius, showed a surplus of Rs. 4.2 billion, compared to a surplus of Rs. 6.2 billion in the preceding year. In the first three quarters of 2004, the current account recorded a deficit of Rs. 2.3 billion, compared to a surplus of Rs. 1.8 billion in the corresponding period in 2003, reflecting a deterioration in the visible trade account. The balance of trade worsened from a surplus of Rs. 988 million in the first three quarters of 2003 to a deficit of Rs. 3.0 billion in the corresponding period of 2004. The capital and financial account, inclusive of reserves, recorded a net outflow of Rs. 163 million in the first three quarters of 2004 as opposed to a net outflow of Rs. 1.6 billion in the same period in 2003. At the end of December 2004, Net International Reserves amounted to Rs. 52.8 billion, 8% higher than in December 2003, when it reached Rs. 48.9 billion. Based on the value of the import bill, exclusive of the purchase of aircrafts and vessels, the level of net international reserves represented 39.6 weeks on imports at the end of December 2004. For the corresponding figure in 2003, it represented 36.6 weeks of imports. 2.6 External Trade Table 6: External Trade, Rs Billion 2001 2002 2003 2004 Trade in goods: Exports of goods – excl freeport activities (f.o.b) 47.5 47.3 46.2 48.9 Export of goods – freeport activities 7.3 6.6 6.8 6.8 Imports of goods – excl freeport activities (f.o.b) 53.8 56.0 57.5 67.6 Imports of goods – Freeport activities 5.2 4.2 3.9 3.8 Merchandise trade balance* 4.2 6.3 8.4 15.7 Trade in services Exports of services 35.6 34.4 35.7 39.8 Imports of services 23.6 23.7 25.3 30.0 Balance of trade in services 12.0 10.7 10.4 11.8 Overall trade balance 7.8 4.3 2.0 3.9 * Both Exports and imports are calculated on an f.o.b basis The overall balance of trade in goods and services marked a significant deterioration in 2004. In fact, there was a shift from a trade surplus of Rs. 2 billion in 2003 to a trade deficit of Rs. 3.9 billion in 2004. There was a sharp increase in the deficit in visible trade, which worsened by 87.1% in 2004. Trade in goods was largely biased against imports, therefore resulting in a faster growth in imports, which soared by 14.6% compared to a low 3.3% in 2003. Exports however grew at 7.6% in 2004 as opposed a meagre 0.5% in the preceding year.   On the other hand, trade in services fared well, registering a surplus of Rs. 11.8 billion in 2004, representing 13.5% more than in the previous year. Much of the increase in merchandise imports in 2004 was associated with investment projects, both in the public and private sector. For instance, appreciable increases were noted in the c.i.f value of cement (+57.6%), machinery and transport equipment (+25.9%), crude materials including textile fibres (+46.2%), and telecommunications equipment (+80.3%). Others are linked to an increasing food bill, with surge in the c.i.f value of food items (+14.9%) and of road vehicles (+53.1%). In fact, it is worth noting that in the fourth quarter of 2004, additional projects and events continued to contribute to boost the import bill. There were also new investment projects in EPZ and in energy production and the significant rise in the international price of petroleum products. Finally, the appreciation of the Rand (+13.2%), the Pound Sterling (+9.1%), the Australian Dollar (+9.2%) and the Euro (+7.1%) also contributed to the escalating visible trade deficit. Box: 1 Exports lack dynamics: Although the Mauritian rupee continued to depreciate against major currencies, including the Euro, exports growth remained relatively static over the past few years. A combination of factors resulted in such a situation. Our markets remained relatively undiversified, with a high concentration in Europe. In the past few years, especially since the advent of the Euro in 2000, the Euro Zone has been relatively less dynamic than other countries like China and the US. Our exports to the most dynamic zones have remained however low. Some of the factors responsible for this lack of dynamism include erosion of our long-standing preferences, rising costs of production and the mismatch of skills on the labour market. Trade in services on the other hand, recorded a surplus of Rs. 11.8 billion, 13.5% higher than in the previous year. This is in part, due to higher earnings from the travel industry benefiting from the windfall gains of a strong euro and a strong pound sterling. Exports of services surged by 11.4% in 2004, from Rs. 35.7 billion in 2003 to Rs. 39.8 billion in 2004, whereas there was a 10.6% increase in the imports of services during the same period of time, from Rs. 25.3 billion to Rs. 30.0 billion. 2.7 Inflation Table 7: Inflation Rate, % Calendar Yr Inflation rate (%) Fiscal Yr Inflation rate (%) 2001 5.4 01/02 6.3 2002 6.4 02/03 5.1 2003 3.9 03/04 3.9 2004 4.7 04/05 5.5 The inflation rate, as measured by the percentage change in the yearly average consumer price index reached 4.7% for calendar year 2004 compared to 3.9% in 2003.   This was mainly the result of a combination of domestic and external factors. There were significant increases in the price of subsidised flour (+17%) and rice (+40%). The rise in the price of flour led to an increase in the price of bread by 12%. The price of other food items, such as chicken (+8.8%), fish (+8.5%) , beef (+9.7%), and frozen mutton (+15.2%)   also went up in 2004. In addition, the rise in international oil prices had spill over effects on the domestic economy. There were three successive increases in the price of gasoline and diesel oil. The price of gasoline increased by a total of 27.9% and the price of diesel oil rose by 45.0%, therefore causing subsequent surges in electricity tariffs (+5.1%), bus fares (+13.3%), taxi fares (+15.4%) and air fares (+16.0%). Finally, the prevailing high budget deficit and the sustained level of public investment also contributed to inflationary pressures. 2.8 Employment/ Unemployment Until 2003, labour force statistics were estimated on the basis of the Population census or Labour Force Sample Survey. A new methodology, named the Continuous Multi Purpose Household Survey   (CMPHS) was introduced in March 2004 to estimate the labour force, employment and unemployment rate. It is based on a sample of households that presently covers a total 8,640 households for the whole of 2004. Estimates are conducted on a quarterly basis, on 2,160 households per quarter. In the new CMPHS, the lower age cut-off point to estimate the labour force was brought to 15 years instead of 12 years used previously. A few inconsistencies with regard to the results of the survey have been noted, which probably indicate some weaknesses in the new methodology. The table below gives the estimated figures for the 3 quarters of 2004: Table 8: March 2004 – Estimates June 2004 – Estimates September 2004 – Estimates Labour force Male Female 541,100 348,700 192,400 540,700 347,500 193,200 527,800 349,400 178,400 Employment Male Female 494,100 328,400 165,700 491,200 324,600 166,600 483,500 329,800 153,700 Unemployment Male Female 47,000 20,300 26,700 49,500 22,900 26,600 44,300 19,600 24,700 Unemployment Rate (%) 8.7 9.2 8.4 Contrary to what one would logically expect, the CMPHS estimates indicate a downward trend in the labour force over the three quarters. From March to June, there was a fall of 400 people in the labour force. However, a larger fall was observed, with a contraction of 12,900 jobs from June to September Analysis of Global Economic Growth Analysis of Global Economic Growth World economic growth 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 World Economic Outlook: According to the World Bank, world economic growth accelerated sharply in 2004. In aggregate, the year 2004 has been the healthiest year for developing countries since the last three decades. East Asian countries have come out of the 1997 crisis and are now performing well. The ongoing economic boom in China as well as the surge in activities registered in Japan were major factors in promoting growth in the region. Latin American countries and Sub-Saharan Africa also had a better year. This performance reflects a fortuitous combination of long-term secular trends built on a foundation of better macroeconomic management and an improved domestic investment climate converging with a cyclical recovery of the global economy. There were however some lingering imbalances in the global economy associated with the rising twin deficits in the United States, a delayed recovery in Europe, coupled with high and volatile oil prices, and questions about the path of Chinas economy that might constitute risks to the pace of growth in developing countries over the medium term. Worlds economic growth is likely to slow down in 2005 with a projected rate of 3.2%. Several factors are likely to contribute to the slower growth. It is believed that the investment cycle in the US has peaked, therefore resulting in a slowdown in growth. Furthermore, world demand has far exceeded world supply, resulting in a substantial increase in oil and other commodity prices, therefore reducing demand in other countries. Also, increases in interest rates are likely to slow the investment growth. The US is likely to finance its large budget deficits through tighter fiscal policies and in Europe countries will tighten their budgetary control to remain within the realm of Maastricht limits. Table 1: World economic outlook Real Growth Rate (%) 2002 2003 2004 2005* World 1.7 2.7 4.0 3.2 High Income Countries 1.3 2.1 3.5 2.7 Euro Zone 0.9 0.5 1.8 2.1 USA 1.9 3.0 4.3 3.2 Japan -0.3 2.4 4.3 1.8 Developing Countries 3.4 5.2 6.1 5.4 East Asia and Pacific 6.7 7.9 7.8 7.1 Latin America and Caribbean -0.6 1.6 4.7 3.7 Sub Saharan Africa 3.1 3.0 3.2 3.6 *projected figures Source: Global Economic Prospects 2005, World Bank. 1.2 Mauritian Economic Outlook: Mauritian economic growth in 2004 was positive and stabilised at 4.2%, slightly lower than the 4.4% recorded in 2003. On the one hand, internal demand constituted an important dragging factor, with a 6.3% growth in consumption expenditure compared to 4.5% in 2003. On the other hand, lingering uncertainties linked to the wave of change in the international economic order, uninterrupted trade liberalisation and the gradual loss of our long-standing preferences had a dampening effect on growth. The recent run-up in oil prices was also a constraining factor on economic buoyancy. Business confidence appeared to be quite timid in 2004. However, in spite of an overall deceleration in the rate of investment, which grew by 5.5%, compared to 10.0% in 2003, private sector investment grew by a high 13.2% as opposed to a negative 2.2% in 2003. Moreover, international perception about Mauritius remained positive, and foreign investments in hotels and ICT projects were at a relatively high level. Despite the stable growth rate, several macroeconomic and sectoral performances were relatively unfavourable. Savings rate was lower, registering 23.3% of GDP in 2004 against 25.4% in 2003. Inflation rate was higher in 2004, reaching 5.5%, as opposed to 3.9% in 2003. Overall external trade worsened, from a surplus of Rs. 2 billion in 2003 to a deficit on Rs. 3.9 billion in 2004, as a result of a very large increase in the merchandise trade deficit, from Rs. 8.4 billion to Rs. 15.7 billion. On a sectoral basis, industries were faced with a restricted margin of manoeuvre as a result of increasing international competition from lower-cost producers. Repercussions were felt in the EPZ sector, which registered a negative growth rate of 5% in 2004, following the deceleration of 6% in 2003. The tourism sector, in spite of its apparent dynamism, recorded a growth rate of only 2.6%, compared to 3.0% in 2003. Financial services experienced some inertia, with a low expansion of 1.0%, compared to a high 7.2% in 2004. However, the agricultural sector expanded by 5.1% in 2004, in contrast to the low 1.9% recorded in 2003 and the non-EPZ sector grew by 5.0% in spite of the gradual reduction of tariff protection. 2.0 ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE FOR 2004 2.1 National Accounts: Real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by a moderate 4.2% in 2004, compared to 4.4% in 2003. At current basic prices, GDP increased from Rs. 137.9 billion in 2003 to Rs. 151.7 billion. GDP per capita at current basic prices increased by 10.1%, to attain Rs. 122,984 in 2004. In US dollar terms, GDP per capita reached US$ 4,477, 11.7% higher than the previous year, when it reached US$4,010. It is worth noting also that at Purchasing Power Parity, GDP per capita in dollars was estimated at US$ 11,400 in 2003. For the second consecutive year, net income from the rest of the world was negative, with Rs. – 415 million in 2004, compared to Rs. – 833 million in 2003. Table 2: Output at current basic prices: Unit 2001 2002 2003 2004 Real GDP growth rate % +5.6 +1.8 +4.4 +4.2 GDP Rs. Million 117,720 125,260 137,868 151,725 Net income from abroad Rs. Million 393 396 833 415 GNI Rs. Million 118,113 125,656 137,035 151,310 GDP/capita Rs. 98,086 103,479 112,720 122,984 US$ US$ (PPP)* 3,380.9 9,609 3,462.2 10,810 4,010.0 11,400 4,477.4 n/a Exchange Rate, annual av. mid-rate Rs/$ 29.012 29.888 28.11 27.468 * GDP at Purchasing Power Parity provides a more reasonable international GDP comparison among nations.Source: CIA Fact Book 2004 While the EPZ sector continued to register negative growth rates for the third consecutive year, almost all other sectors recorded positive growth rates in 2004.   Non-EPZ grew by +5.0% in 2004, slightly lower than in 2003, when the growth rate was +5.8%. After high growth rates registered in 2002 (+7.6%) and 2003 (+11.1%) mainly due to high investment in building and construction works by the public sector, Construction grew by 3.1% in 2004. The distributive trade sector grew by 3.2%, slightly higher than the 3.1% recorded in the previous year. Transport and Communications activities expanded by 6.5% in 2004 as opposed to 6.1% in 2003. During the same period real estate, renting and business activities grew by 6.9% compared to 6.5% in 2003. Education, including services provided by public and private operators grew by 7.2% in 2004, compared to 5.3% in 2003, while health and social work expanded by 8.8% compared to 7.0% in 2003. Electricity, gas and water supply registered a growth of 4.2% as opposed to 4.6% in 2003. 2.2 Consumption Last years economic performance was once again influenced by internal demand. Total final contribution of consumption to GDP at market price was estimated at 77.3%, compared to 75.1% in 2003. Real final consumption expenditure, increased by 6.3% in 2004, compared to a 4.5% rise in 2003. This expansion in the consumption rate, which is much higher than the GDP growth rate, is clearly inflationary and has a negative direct impact on trade balance and budget deficit. It must be noted that private consumption represented 83.1% of total consumption in 2004, as opposed to 82.8% in 2003. A growth of 6.7% was observed in the consumption of households in 2004, against 4.9% in 2003. This is the highest growth rate recorded since 1989. On the other hand, the share of public sector consumption amounted to 16.9% of total consumption in 2004, showing a slight drop from the 17.2% observed in 2003. Public consumption grew by 4.4% compared to an increase of 2.6% in 2003. In 2004, the continued growth observed in total consumption has been largely sustained by the significant increase in average monthly income earnings of households. The average monthly earnings in large establishments grew by 12.8% between March 2003 and March 2004, to reach Rs. 11, 084. A general upward trend was observed in all industrial groups. The largest increase (+24%) was noted in public administration, following the implementation of the PRB in July 2004. Table 3: Consumption 2001 2002 2003 2004 Aggregate Final Consumption Household Central Government Rs b Rs. b Rs. b 97.0 80.2 16.8 106.6 88.3 18.3 118.3 98.1 20.2 135.1 112.2 22.9 Consumption as a % of GDP at MP % 73.4 75.0 75.1 77.3 Real Agg. Final Consumption growth o Household o Central Government % % % 3.3 3.0 4.7 3.2 3.3 4.1 4.5 4.9 2.6 6.3 6.7 4.4 Average monthly earnings (March) Rs. 8,701 9,159 9,826 11,084 Change in monthly earnings, Nominal % 6.4 5.3 7.3 12.8 2.3 Savings Investment Gross national savings, measured by the difference between Gross National Disposable Income and Total Consumption, increased in nominal terms by 1.8% to reach Rs 40.7 billion in 2004 from Rs 40.0 billion in 2003. Consequently, the saving rate, calculated as the ratio of GNS to GDP at market prices, showed a decline from 25.4% in 2003 to 23.3% in 2004. This decline results from an increase in both public and private expenditure. Table 4: Savings and investment 2001 2002 2003 2004 Gross National Savings (Rs. Billion) 37.6 38.7 40.0 40.7 Nominal Change (%) +2.8 +3.4 +1.8 GNS as a % of GDP at MP (%) 28.4 27.3 25.4 23.3 GDFCF (Rs. billion) Private Sector Public Sector 29.8 20.5 9.3 31.4 21.6 9.8 35.7 21.8 13.8 38.9 25.6 13.4 Real Change in GDFCF (incl aircrafts and vessels) , % +2.7 +1.9 +10.0 +5.5 Real Change in GDFCF (Excl. aircraft and vessels), % -2.6 +6.1 +7.9 +8.2 GDFCF as a % of GDP at MP 22.5 22.0 22.6 22.3 Investment, measured by the Gross Domestic Fixed Capital Formation (GDFCF), increased to Rs 38.9 billion in 2004 from Rs 35.7 billion in 2003. In real terms, including the purchase of aircrafts and marine vessels, total investment has followed an upward trend of 5.5% in 2004, but lower than the 10.0% growth recorded in 2003. It is interesting to note that net of the purchase of aircrafts and vessels, real investment grew by 8.2% in 2004, representing a better performance than in 2003, when it grew by 7.9%. Investment rate, measured as the ratio of GDFCF to GDP at market prices, has however gone down by 0.3%, to reach 22.3% in 2004 from 22.6% in 2003. Private sector investment continued to make up the bulk of GDFCF in 2004. It accounted for 65.6% of total investment in 2004, compared to 61.2% in 2003. This represented a real growth of 13.2% in 2004, after a negative growth rate of -2.2% in 2003. Higher private sector investment was accounted for by new hotels projects, where investment increased by 55.8% in 2004, as opposed to a negative growth of 21.8% in the preceding year. Moreover, there were additional investments in spinning mills and other projects in the EPZ sector, with an increase of 45.0% in 2004 as opposed to a negative 7.7% in 2003.Inversely, the share of public sector investment fell from 38.8% in 2003 to 34.4% in real terms in 2004. In fact, real public sector investment dropped by 6.6% in 2004, after a high 37.0% real growth in 2003, resulting from a record increase of 133.3% in investment in the construction sector in 2003. The resource gap, given by the difference between savings and investment, was again positive in 2004. However, there has been a significant contraction of 59.7%, from Rs. 4.3 billion in 2003 to reach Rs 1.7 billion in 2004, since investment increased more than savings. The direct consequence of this contraction is a further deterioration of the external account of goods and services. 2.4 Foreign Direct Investment In 2004, FDI inflow fell by 8.6% to reach Rs 1.79 billion against Rs 1.96 billion in 2003. A sharp contraction was observed in the banking sector, where only Rs. 121 million were invested in 2004, as opposed to a high Rs. 1.3 billion in 2003. In contrast, higher investments were recorded in the telecommunications sector in the wake of further liberalisation. Similarly, a total of Rs. 1.08 billion were invested in 2004 in other sectors of the economy, including IT, compared to only Rs. 485 million in 2003. The EPZ sector also attracted more FDI in 2004, with Rs. 248 million, compared to Rs. 77 million in 2003. The same upward trend was observed in the tourism sector, from Rs. 103 million in 2003 to Rs. 121 million in 2004. Table 5: Foreign Investment, Rs million 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 Foreign Direct Investment 7,265* 936 979 1966 1,796 EPZ 8 3 41 77 248 Tourism 10 0 100 103 121 Banking 0 600 316 1301 310 Telecoms 7204 0 0 0 38 Others 43 333 522 485 1079 Direct Investment Abroad 333 83 278 1166 909 Net Foreign Direct Investment 6,932 853 701 800 887 * Includes receipts from the sales of Mauritius Telecom shares to France Telecom of Rs 7.2 billion 1 Revised Estimates Concerning outward investment, a high figure of Rs. 1.2 billion was recorded in 2003. However, in 2004, it fell to Rs. 887 million. 2.5   Balance of Payments The overall balance of payments in 2004, measured as a change in foreign reserve assets excluding valuation changes of the Bank of Mauritius, showed a surplus of Rs. 4.2 billion, compared to a surplus of Rs. 6.2 billion in the preceding year. In the first three quarters of 2004, the current account recorded a deficit of Rs. 2.3 billion, compared to a surplus of Rs. 1.8 billion in the corresponding period in 2003, reflecting a deterioration in the visible trade account. The balance of trade worsened from a surplus of Rs. 988 million in the first three quarters of 2003 to a deficit of Rs. 3.0 billion in the corresponding period of 2004. The capital and financial account, inclusive of reserves, recorded a net outflow of Rs. 163 million in the first three quarters of 2004 as opposed to a net outflow of Rs. 1.6 billion in the same period in 2003. At the end of December 2004, Net International Reserves amounted to Rs. 52.8 billion, 8% higher than in December 2003, when it reached Rs. 48.9 billion. Based on the value of the import bill, exclusive of the purchase of aircrafts and vessels, the level of net international reserves represented 39.6 weeks on imports at the end of December 2004. For the corresponding figure in 2003, it represented 36.6 weeks of imports. 2.6 External Trade Table 6: External Trade, Rs Billion 2001 2002 2003 2004 Trade in goods: Exports of goods – excl freeport activities (f.o.b) 47.5 47.3 46.2 48.9 Export of goods – freeport activities 7.3 6.6 6.8 6.8 Imports of goods – excl freeport activities (f.o.b) 53.8 56.0 57.5 67.6 Imports of goods – Freeport activities 5.2 4.2 3.9 3.8 Merchandise trade balance* 4.2 6.3 8.4 15.7 Trade in services Exports of services 35.6 34.4 35.7 39.8 Imports of services 23.6 23.7 25.3 30.0 Balance of trade in services 12.0 10.7 10.4 11.8 Overall trade balance 7.8 4.3 2.0 3.9 * Both Exports and imports are calculated on an f.o.b basis The overall balance of trade in goods and services marked a significant deterioration in 2004. In fact, there was a shift from a trade surplus of Rs. 2 billion in 2003 to a trade deficit of Rs. 3.9 billion in 2004. There was a sharp increase in the deficit in visible trade, which worsened by 87.1% in 2004. Trade in goods was largely biased against imports, therefore resulting in a faster growth in imports, which soared by 14.6% compared to a low 3.3% in 2003. Exports however grew at 7.6% in 2004 as opposed a meagre 0.5% in the preceding year.   On the other hand, trade in services fared well, registering a surplus of Rs. 11.8 billion in 2004, representing 13.5% more than in the previous year. Much of the increase in merchandise imports in 2004 was associated with investment projects, both in the public and private sector. For instance, appreciable increases were noted in the c.i.f value of cement (+57.6%), machinery and transport equipment (+25.9%), crude materials including textile fibres (+46.2%), and telecommunications equipment (+80.3%). Others are linked to an increasing food bill, with surge in the c.i.f value of food items (+14.9%) and of road vehicles (+53.1%). In fact, it is worth noting that in the fourth quarter of 2004, additional projects and events continued to contribute to boost the import bill. There were also new investment projects in EPZ and in energy production and the significant rise in the international price of petroleum products. Finally, the appreciation of the Rand (+13.2%), the Pound Sterling (+9.1%), the Australian Dollar (+9.2%) and the Euro (+7.1%) also contributed to the escalating visible trade deficit. Box: 1 Exports lack dynamics: Although the Mauritian rupee continued to depreciate against major currencies, including the Euro, exports growth remained relatively static over the past few years. A combination of factors resulted in such a situation. Our markets remained relatively undiversified, with a high concentration in Europe. In the past few years, especially since the advent of the Euro in 2000, the Euro Zone has been relatively less dynamic than other countries like China and the US. Our exports to the most dynamic zones have remained however low. Some of the factors responsible for this lack of dynamism include erosion of our long-standing preferences, rising costs of production and the mismatch of skills on the labour market. Trade in services on the other hand, recorded a surplus of Rs. 11.8 billion, 13.5% higher than in the previous year. This is in part, due to higher earnings from the travel industry benefiting from the windfall gains of a strong euro and a strong pound sterling. Exports of services surged by 11.4% in 2004, from Rs. 35.7 billion in 2003 to Rs. 39.8 billion in 2004, whereas there was a 10.6% increase in the imports of services during the same period of time, from Rs. 25.3 billion to Rs. 30.0 billion. 2.7 Inflation Table 7: Inflation Rate, % Calendar Yr Inflation rate (%) Fiscal Yr Inflation rate (%) 2001 5.4 01/02 6.3 2002 6.4 02/03 5.1 2003 3.9 03/04 3.9 2004 4.7 04/05 5.5 The inflation rate, as measured by the percentage change in the yearly average consumer price index reached 4.7% for calendar year 2004 compared to 3.9% in 2003.   This was mainly the result of a combination of domestic and external factors. There were significant increases in the price of subsidised flour (+17%) and rice (+40%). The rise in the price of flour led to an increase in the price of bread by 12%. The price of other food items, such as chicken (+8.8%), fish (+8.5%) , beef (+9.7%), and frozen mutton (+15.2%)   also went up in 2004. In addition, the rise in international oil prices had spill over effects on the domestic economy. There were three successive increases in the price of gasoline and diesel oil. The price of gasoline increased by a total of 27.9% and the price of diesel oil rose by 45.0%, therefore causing subsequent surges in electricity tariffs (+5.1%), bus fares (+13.3%), taxi fares (+15.4%) and air fares (+16.0%). Finally, the prevailing high budget deficit and the sustained level of public investment also contributed to inflationary pressures. 2.8 Employment/ Unemployment Until 2003, labour force statistics were estimated on the basis of the Population census or Labour Force Sample Survey. A new methodology, named the Continuous Multi Purpose Household Survey   (CMPHS) was introduced in March 2004 to estimate the labour force, employment and unemployment rate. It is based on a sample of households that presently covers a total 8,640 households for the whole of 2004. Estimates are conducted on a quarterly basis, on 2,160 households per quarter. In the new CMPHS, the lower age cut-off point to estimate the labour force was brought to 15 years instead of 12 years used previously. A few inconsistencies with regard to the results of the survey have been noted, which probably indicate some weaknesses in the new methodology. The table below gives the estimated figures for the 3 quarters of 2004: Table 8: March 2004 – Estimates June 2004 – Estimates September 2004 – Estimates Labour force Male Female 541,100 348,700 192,400 540,700 347,500 193,200 527,800 349,400 178,400 Employment Male Female 494,100 328,400 165,700 491,200 324,600 166,600 483,500 329,800 153,700 Unemployment Male Female 47,000 20,300 26,700 49,500 22,900 26,600 44,300 19,600 24,700 Unemployment Rate (%) 8.7 9.2 8.4 Contrary to what one would logically expect, the CMPHS estimates indicate a downward trend in the labour force over the three quarters. From March to June, there was a fall of 400 people in the labour force. However, a larger fall was observed, with a contraction of 12,900 jobs from June to September