Regional features of agriculture in Kharkiv region

Abstract

The paper discloses territorial features of agricultural development of the Kharkiv region. A summary of agricultural lands is presented and established that their landshare increases in the lower area.

Production and sale features of plant growing and animal industry’s main sectors by districts are examined. It is ascertained that in the agricultural production sectoral structure plant growing dominates considerably. Such situation is observed in almost all parts of the region. Plant growing is represented by the main types of crops: corn and bean, sunflower, sugar beet and rape. Animal industry is presented by pigstry, poultry, cattle, sheep and goat breeding. The livestock development in districts of the Kharkiv region is rather low, which is caused by the livestock products market uncompetitiveness. Mainly it is used to meet domestic needs of regional agricultural enterprises.

Plant growing and animal industry profitability of the Kharkiv region is determined in the territorial aspect. Survey showed that the most profitable plant industries are sunflowers and vegetables. Livestock profitability by districts is quite differentiated.

Research identified the main agricultural problems of the Kharkiv region. The lack of governmental support, price volatility in agricultural markets, inefficient use of agricultural land, etc. can be mentioned among them. Today’s Kharkiv region agriculture development priorities are as follows: to create optimal conditions for competitive agricultural products at foreign markets, to establish agricultural holdings and agricultural clusters, to introduce new technologies in agricultural production. Such issues as preparation and consolidation of skilled personnel in rural areas; migration overcoming, particularly among young people from rural areas; growth in the standard and quality of living of the rural population; development of social infrastructure in rural areas and so on need further socio-geographical researches.