Factors for the Development of an Export-Oriented Agri-Food Market

Abstract

The paper reveals positive dynamics in the development of foreign economic activities in the Russian agricultural sector. It is marked with a 1.5-fold increase in the volume of exports of food products and agricultural raw materials and an increase in their share in all-Russian exports from 2.6% to 5.8%. The concept of the “export-oriented agri-food market” is disclosed. The features of market entities operating in this market are highlighted. As a result of the analysis, positive trends in the development of the export-oriented agri-food market were identified. Its food segments (cereals, vegetable oil, sugar, etc.) are defined. From 2000 to 2017, the commodity structure of the export of food products and agricultural raw materials saw a significant change. In particular, the proportion of cereals, vegetable oil, and fresh and frozen meat increased. The proportion of fresh and frozen fish decreased. The authors indicated the influence of the price situation on the geography of exports of cereal products, causing an increase in cereal exports to either the CIS countries or foreign countries. Factors stimulating and impeding the development of export of food products and agricultural raw materials are systematized. It is noted that the current agricultural policy, which contributes to increasing agricultural production through modernization of the material and technical base, has the most significant impact on the formation of an export-oriented agri-food market. The ongoing foreign policy of Russia, aimed at strengthening the geopolitical influence in the world, has the most significant impact on the formation of export-oriented agri-food markets. Background, benefits, and risks of strengthening the export orientation of the agri-food market are highlighted. Moreover, the instruments of state regulation aimed at the development of foreign trade are summarized.