Theoretical and methodological approaches to agriculture competitiveness in modern conditions

The purpose of the article is to theoretically and methodologically justify agriculture competitiveness in conditions of international economic integration, and define its essential characteristics and contradictions. Research methods. The abstract and logical method was used to generalize theoretical approaches to the study of a concept of “competitiveness”. The comparison method, analysis and synthesis were used to specify and define a concept of “competitiveness of agriculture in conditions of international economic integration”. Research results. It was defined that among the main scientific theories that influenced on development of theoretical foundations of competitiveness, it is advisable to distinguish competition theory, competitive advantages theory, markets and market equilibrium theory, theory of supply and demand, trade development, motivational theories, institutional, concepts of state regulation of economy, marketing theory, resources theory, etc. The most appropriate method is to divide them into two main groups: theories, concepts and models that developed approaches to formation of external (mostly market) conditions of competitiveness; theories, concepts and models that offered mechanisms for formation of internal (mostly industrial) conditions of competitiveness. Elements of scientific novelty. The category-conceptual apparatus, which deepens the theoretical and methodological basis of competitiveness, was improved by author’s interpretation of a concept of “agriculture competitiveness in conditions of international economic integration” as an aggregated characteristic of the industry formed under an influence of competitiveness of subsectors, business entities, individual products and commodity groups, which ensures its ability to withstand a competitive pressure on world agrarian markets, taking leading positions there. Practical significance. The author’s definition of a concept of “agriculture competitiveness in conditions of international economic integration” proposed in the study will allow to involve this specified category in order to develop and implement a state regulatory policy aimed at strengthening the industry market positions. Figs.: 2. Refs.: 29.