The aim of this study is to determine the state of agricultural sector of Rostov region from the reforms in the 1990-s XX century to the present day and to define prospects for further development of agrarian sector of the region. The post-reform period of the 90-s is characterized by adoption of set of laws and programs for the development of agriculture. About 40 million hectares of fertile land fell into a state of neglect due to lack of an adequate support system for farmers. Approval of the agricultural development draft outlined the uptrend towards improvement of situation in the industry, especially in the South of Russia, where overall production has increased, long-term reduction of livestock production has decreased and the food industry has recovered. Rostov region is one of the leading producers of agricultural products in Russia, offering a great variety of agricultural products. About 30 % of total acreage of cultivated land belong to private (peasant) farms. In addition, the rise of total volume of small enterprises in this industry has been observed within past few years. State support has given a significant boost to the agricultural sector of Rostov region, though the interaction with the private investment sector is necessary for a more effective performance.
Keywords: agriculture, agrarian reform, Rostov region, the peasant (farm) economy, agricultural organization, people’s farm units, the program of state support for agriculture.
