DEVELOPMENT OF AGRICULTURAL PRODUCER GROUPS IN POLAND – MAZOVIA CASE STUDY

Abstract

The aim of the paper was to present the development of agricultural producer groups in Mazovia - region in Central Poland with capital of the Voivodeship in Warsaw. Data and literature analysis, interviews and descriptive methods were used. In the first part the authors present theoretical background of cooperation in agriculture based on social capital. The second part presents the main results of the research: the quantitative development of producer groups in the period 2007-2017, the structure of agricultural products produced by the groups and their legal forms. Currently most of groups operate as limited liability companies and co-operatives. Also the main benefits and barriers concerning creation and development of agricultural producer groups were identified. The main barriers were unwillingness to cooperate, mistrust, and high administrative and legal burdens. On the basis of the study – in order to help develop agricultural groups - it is recommended to strengthen social capital in the rural areas (especially important is overcoming mental barriers and development of trust), educate farmers (management, accounting, etc.) and promote good practice. The conclusions of the study may be applicable in countries where producer groups’ development is low (as Lithuania).

Keywords: Poland, producer groups, rural areas, social capital

Article DOI: http://doi.org/10.15544/RD.2017.157