Agrarian integration: Theoretical foundations

Abstract

The benefits of international economic integration have led to an increase in the number of integration groups. The sensitivity of the agri-food sector to liberalisation and its importance have led to the allocation of a separate chapter in regional trade agreements. The importance of foreign trade and food security, as well as their special significance for Ukraine, which has signed dozens of regional trade agreements and is one of the largest exporters of certain types of agri-food products, confirm the relevance of the study. The aim of the article is to analyse the theoretical foundations of international economic integration with a focus on the agricultural sector, identify its specific features and develop relevant proposals. To achieve this goal, the author used the methods of theoretical generalisation, abstract and logical, specification, analysis, and synthesis, which allowed to study the features of international economic integration in the agricultural sector, to formulate conclusions and proposals. The information base was based on scientific research, regional trade agreements, etc. As a result of the work carried out, the development of international economic integration was analysed with due regard to the agricultural sector. The article suggests allocation of the main goals of integration, their classification, definition and substantiation of risks. Among the main objectives of integration in the agricultural sector, it is proposed to allocate the following: ensuring the domestic demand for food of the required quality at an affordable price, taking into account the comparative advantages of the member states, increasing exports to third countries, based on the potential of the member states, and solving social problems. Taking into account the goals of sustainable development and global problems of mankind, it is proposed that the main goals should also include environmental issues and rational use of resources. The goals of integration are defined as one of the main prerequisites for its successful development, which is confirmed by the content of the relevant treaties and agreements. In practice, international economic integration can contribute to solving the problem of food security and development of the agricultural sector, production, in particular through the inflow of new technologies, foreign investment, etc. The development of intra- and extra-regional trade is envisaged as a result of harmonisation of product quality standards, increase of its competitiveness, etc. This should be facilitated, first of all, by a clear definition of goals, their implementation through an appropriate set of measures defined by country, and monitoring of implementation