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Strategic Directions To Increase Competitiveness In The Agrifood

Author

Listed:
  • Ioana Panait

    (Doctoral School of Economics II, The Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania)

Abstract

This paper explores strategic directions to enhance the competitiveness of Romania’s agri-food sector, focusing on the fruits and vegetables market. Despite its rich agricultural heritage and favourable climate conditions, Romania’s fruit and vegetable sector faces challenges such as low productivity, fragmented supply chains, outdated farming practices, and limited access to modern agricultural technologies. These factors have weakened its competitiveness in both domestic and international markets. In response, this study identifies key strategies, including the adoption of innovative agricultural technologies, improvements in supply chain management, and the promotion of sustainable farming practices. This paper seeks to develop strategic pathways to significantly enhance the competitiveness of Romania’s fruits and vegetables sector by rigorously addressing systemic challenges and providing comprehensive information for the promotion of strategic directions of competitiveness in the agri-food market. The research adopts a quantitative approach, with a strong emphasis on a comprehensive literature review on agricultural competitiveness, this literature-driven analysis will provide a robust foundation for understanding current challenges and opportunities in the agri-food sector. This paper is important in economics as it addresses the vital role of the agri-food sector in national economic development, particularly for Romania. By identifying strategic directions to boost competitiveness, it contributes to enhancing agricultural productivity, increasing exports, improving rural livelihoods, and aligning with global market trends. The analysis suggests that by investing in sustainability, enhancing resource efficiency, climate-smart practices, and aligning production with emerging consumer trends for organic and local products, Romania can strengthen its market position. These measures will not only boost productivity but also position Romania as a key player in the European agri-food market and future competitiveness will also rely on policy support and rural development initiatives. The paper concludes with policy recommendations and strategic actions to boost productivity and sustainability in Romania’s fruits and vegetables sector.

Suggested Citation

  • Ioana Panait, 2025. "Strategic Directions To Increase Competitiveness In The Agrifood," Oradea Journal of Business and Economics, University of Oradea, Faculty of Economics, vol. 10(1), pages 156-165, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:ora:jrojbe:v:10:y:2025:i:1:p:156-165
    DOI: http://doi.org/10.47535/1991ojbe213
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Kym Anderson & Gordon Rausser & Johan Swinnen, 2013. "Political Economy of Public Policies: Insights from Distortions to Agricultural and Food Markets," Journal of Economic Literature, American Economic Association, vol. 51(2), pages 423-477, June.
    2. Anna Nowak & Armand Kasztelan, 2022. "Economic competitiveness vs. green competitiveness of agriculture in the European Union countries," Oeconomia Copernicana, Institute of Economic Research, vol. 13(2), pages 379-405, June.
    3. Tamás Mizik, 2021. "Agri-Food Trade Competitiveness: A Review of the Literature," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(20), pages 1-14, October.
    4. Brzeska, Joanna & Fan, Shenggen & Halsema, Alex & Keyzer, Michiel, 2013. "From subsistence to profit: Transforming smallholder farms," Food policy reports 26, International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI).
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • Q10 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Agriculture - - - General
    • O13 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Agriculture; Natural Resources; Environment; Other Primary Products

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