Development of fruit and vegetable processing industry in the Slavonia and Baranja region - the paradigm is needed

The absence of a social and economic development paradigm, both in Croatia and the Slavonia and Baranja region (SliB), has caused a serious setback in economic and social development compared to of the most successful transition countries. Without fundamental changes it will take several decades to rectify these unfavourable trends. This paper points out major downsides due to lack of social and economic development in the Slavonia and Baranja region population decline, low GDP per capita, high unemployment rate, low social cohesion, as well as absence of a development strategy and adequate responses to economic and technological developments in the region. Decisive change could be realized by establishing a development paradigm. This includes joining producers and processors of fruits and vegetables by direct involvement of science and state in the development process. This state would be initiator of the development model and guarantor of public interest. Development potential of the SliB region can and should be the fruit and vegetable processing industry. It would also serve as a stabilization engine for agricultural production as well as a development all related industries such as trade, services and transport. Croatia’s government system (including county authorities) is largely responsible for the poor situation in Croatia and it must take responsibility. In conclusion we propose a development model for fruit and vegetable processing industry under current conditions.