THE EXTENT OF AGRICULTURE IN THE REGIONS OF NORTHERN MACEDONIA
Merime MUSTAFI, Mireme RUSHITI
Abstract
The agricultural sector displays distinct characteristics compared to other sectors of the economy. While market competition determines the fate of businesses in most sectors by favoring the best solutions, agriculture experiences exceptions due to state support in the form of subsidies. The primary rationale behind direct state support in agriculture is the essential nature of food for human survival. Agriculture encompasses a broad range of economic activities, including land cultivation, plant cultivation, animal breeding, and their utilization for human needs. Although agriculture is closely associated with natural conditions, it is crucial not to overlook the significant role played by social factors in its development. Natural factors for analysis include topography, climate, water resources, soil composition, flora and fauna, and the geological and petrographic characteristics of the soil. Social factors to be considered include land improvement, mechanization, chemical inputs, seed selection, animal breeding, and the establishment of vocational schools.
In North Macedonia, there are six agricultural regions: Golemoezerski Region, Western Region, Skopje and Kumanovo Region, Eastern Region, Mediterranean Region, and Pelagonia Region. As a developing country, North Macedonia is undergoing a transition towards transforming its agriculture sector from a semi-open sector in international trade to a more open and liberalized one with support from both internal and external sources. This paper aims to critically assess the progress and prospects of North Macedonia in these processes and draw conclusions regarding the best alternatives for agricultural development.
Pages:
139 - 147