THE AGRICULTURAL SECTOR AS PART OF THE SOLUTION

Abstract

The international economic crisis, which in the case of Spain is further exacerbated by major pre-existing internal imbalances, has forced the country to make changes leading to a reduction in economic activity, and as a result, a lower domestic demand and an extraordinary increase in unemployment. Catalonia is compensating for this domestic market decline by significantly increasing its exports. Those of the food industry are particularly worthy of note, accounting for more than 20 % of all Catalan exports.
By analyzing the envisaged increase in food demand in the international market, it is plain to see that there is significant potential for growth in Catalan food exports, meaning that this sector could greatly contribute to bringing the country out of its current recession. In this sense, the Segarra-Garrigues Canal, which is presently under construction, may be a key driving force for rural development in the surrounding areas of the Plana de Lleida and strengthen the importance of the food and agriculture sector.
To maximize the potential of this sector, it is essential to promote research, development and innovation, as well as cooperation among the different agents that form the supply chain, including producers, the processing industry and the marketing channels.
Similarly, given the vital role of the food and agriculture industry as a supplier of food to the population, a significant increase in its production is also important, as a means to eradicate malnutrition throughout the world.

Keywords: Catalonia, export, food and agriculture industry, rural development, nutrition.