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Organic farming and market development in the European Union in times of global economic turbulences

Abstract

Objective: This article aims to examine the latest trends in the development of the organic farming and market for organic agricultural products in the European Union in the context of global economic uncertainty and turbulences caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and current geopolitical tensions.

Research Design & Methods: We used quantitative research methods (e.g., descriptive statistics, hierarchical cluster analysis, Pearson’s correlation coefficient calculations) to analyse trends in organic farming and market development in the EU between 2015 and 2023. We based the study on statistical data provided by the Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL) and Eurostat.

Findings: The economic turmoil of recent years caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and Russian invasion of Ukraine has affected the organic products market, and in particular the demand for organic products, but in different ways in each of these crises.

Implications & Recommendations: Knowledge of development trends in the organic market is important for entrepreneurs in the agri-food sector, as it reveals market opportunities associated with participation in more sustainable agri-food systems. It highlights the need for EU policymakers to continue to support and promote the development of sustainable agriculture.

Contribution & Value Added: The study contributes to a broader understanding of the latest development trends in organic farming and the organic products market. It also reveals the opportunities and limitations associated with this form of agriculture, which represents a more environmentally-friendly alternative to conventional farming.

Keywords

organic farming, European Union, global turbulences, organic production, organic market development

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Author Biography

Agnieszka Hajdukiewicz

Associate Professor at the College of Economics and Finance, Krakow University of Economics, Department of International Trade. She received a PhD in economics from the Faculty of Economics, Krakow University of Economics and completed her habilitation at the same university. Her research interests include international trade, trade policy, trade conflicts, foreign market analysis and international marketing. She is a member of the Academy of International Business (AIB) and is engaged in several scientific projects.

Bożena Pera

Assistant Professor at the College of Economics and Finance, Krakow University of Economics, Department of International Trade. She received a PhD in economics from the Faculty of Economics, Krakow University of Economics. Her research interests include international trade, economic integration, the disintegration process, regional trade agreements, international trade policy, and international business. She has been actively engaged in several research projects.


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