Preparing agriculture in Central Europe for entry to the European Union.

摘要

The paper notes the situation of agriculture in Central Europe, pointing out the most pressing issues. Disruption caused by the transition to the market economy has resulted in significant reductions in productivity and rural unemployment has increased significantly. Land markets are not functioning properly, with farmers unable to borrow against the capital value of land. The problems over access to long term finance are a major constraint to the regeneration of agriculture. The situation in the Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland, which have made better progress with economic and political reform than most other countries, is discussed in more detail. It is suggested that the applicant states should continue to open up their agricultural sectorsto foreign investment and collaborate and participate in the debate over the future of the CAP. The question of CAP reform in preparation for EU enlargement is also referred to. While there are opportunities to invest in Central Europe, and some UK farmers have already done so, caution is urged to avoid the pitfalls.