Development of commercial horticulture in conditions of the European integration processes

The purpose of the article is to investigate current problems and tendencies of the development of commercial horticulture, and to identify the main directions of its adaptation to the European integration process. Research methods. The theoretical and methodological basis of the research is the dialectical method of cognition and systematic approach to the analysis of problems and substantiation of prospects for the development of commercial fruit production in conditions of the European integration. The abstract and logical method (for systematization of publications on the issues of efficient functioning of the agrarian sector in conditions of the European integration and the field of horticulture in particular, theoretical generalization and formulation of conclusions), analysis and synthesis (for analysis of the current state and main trends of the horticulture development), graphic method (for analysis of the dynamics of planting commercial fruit and berry crops) were used during the research process. Research results. Modern tendencies and problems of the functioning of commercial horticulture, its regional differences, state of reproduction of fruit and berry gardens were investigated. Prospects of accelerated development of the industry on basis of rational placement of commercial plantations of fruit crops were outlined. The state and possibilities of the development of foreign trade of fruit products were studied. It has been established that the main problems hindering the development of its exports are high competition of the world fruit producers in the foreign markets, lack of development of domestic trade infrastructure and logistics, lack of full-scale control over production safety from a garden to final consumer, etc. The quality standards for horticulture products in the EU countries were analysed. The necessity of standardization of production, in particular organic one, as a condition for the distribution of Ukrainian fruits and berries in the European market was substantiated. The features and current state of the state support for commercial horticulture were investigated. The main directions of enhancing the industry efficiency were identified. Elements of scientific novelty. Basic approaches to commercial horticulture development in conditions of the European integration were substantiated. Practical significance. Implementation of the proposed measures will contribute to the formation of competitive horticulture enterprises and increase efficiency of the industry. Tabl.: 1. Figs.: 1. Refs.: 25.