MultIfunctIonalIty of agrI-food sector: theoretIc conseptIon, practIcal IMpleMentatIon

The term «multifunctionality of agriculture» began to be used in connection with the development of discussions on state support for agricultural production and its impact on the situation on the world food market in the WTO. Countries interested in export expansion argued that such support distorts market relations and hinders trade liberalization. Their opponents objected, arguing that agriculture not only produces and sells products, but also performs a number of socially important functions necessary to the harmonious development of rural areas, environmental protection etc. That's why it needs state support which should be provided. The first group of countries includes the United States, Canada, Australia and other major exporters of food. The second one — the EU states, Japan and developing countries, the states of the EurAsEC can be also referred to this group. It should be noted that despite of all differences on the issue of support for the idea of multifuncUDC 338.432 (1) E. N. Krylatykh