Bridging Economic Growth and Literacy: Mediation–Moderation Pathways Linking Agriculture, Environment, and Poverty Reduction Across Asian Economies

Authors

• Muhammad Abubakar, Quaid-e-Azam University, Islamabad, PakistanFollow
• Wasim Abbas Shaheen, Quaid-e-Azam University, Islamabad, PakistanFollow
• Umair Umer, Quaid-e-Azam University, Islamabad, PakistanFollow

Abstract

In the framework of reducing poverty, this study explores the numerous connections between economic, environmental, and agricultural aspects, paying particular attention to the moderating role of literacy. The Study aims to assess how agricultural employment, arable land, forest area, fertilizer usage, and ecological resources shape poverty outcomes in Asia. Utilizing panel data from 46 nations between 2000 to 2023, sourced from the World Development Indicators, the analysis applies advanced econometrics such as FMOLS and DOLS, alongside a panel co-integration framework validated through panel unit root and cointegration tests. Results indicate that agricultural employment significantly reduces poverty, arable land has mixed effects depending on management practices, and excessive fertilizer use can hinder long-term sustainability. Economic growth partially mediates these relationships, while literacy strengthens the positive poverty-reducing effects of agriculture. The finding highlights the need for multi-sectoral strategies, including sustainable agricultural practices, enhanced literacy programs, and greener technologies, to achieve effective and inclusive poverty alleviation.

Keywords

Agriculture, Poverty alleviation, Economic growth, Literacy rates, Arable land, FMOLS

Clarification of Conflict of Interest

The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise that could influence the outcome of this research study.

DOI

10.54784/1990-6587.1734

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

Recommended Citation

Abubakar, M., Shaheen, W. A., & Umer, U. (2026). Bridging Economic Growth and Literacy: Mediation–Moderation Pathways Linking Agriculture, Environment, and Poverty Reduction Across Asian Economies. Business Review, 21(1), 61-83. Retrieved from 10.54784/1990-6587.1734