Motives of economic decisions of Lithuanian agricultural entities to deepen farm specialisation

ENThis study aims at determining the main motives of economic decisions of Lithuanian agricultural entities to deepen farm specialisation. One of the assumptions is that the concentration and dominance of cereals farming is becoming more pronounced in Lithuania. In the course of the research, the methodology of expert evaluation of the motives of agricultural entities and economic decisions to deepen the concentration of economic activities in certain farming sectors was developed. Research was carried out on the basis of these considerations and decision-examination. Upon completion of the expert evaluation, the results of the study are supplemented by the evaluation of statistical data. The specialisation in crop production is strengthening in Lithuania and at the same time displacing the development of animal husbandry. The main motives of that are: the pursuit of profit and stable income, the availability of consulting services, per area payments, access to EU support (in general) and coupled area support. Social motives for deepening the economic activity through specialization more reflect the general motives of farming and living in rural areas as a lifestyle or tradition. The results will serve in making policy and business decisions and other research. Key words: specialisation, concentration of farm activity, farmers’ decision, farming motives, small farms. [From the publication]