Evaluation of Agriculture’s Economic Role in EU Countries
Evaluation of Agriculture’s Economic Role in EU Countries

Summary/Abstract: In this paper we investigate the position of agriculture in the economy of EU countries. Agriculture in the EU is highly heterogeneous – we characterise the sector by using the share of agriculture workers of total employment, the share of agriculture in total GDP, and the value added in agriculture per worker. To quantify the economic importance of agriculture per country for acquired specific condition, we construct the Agricultural Index-Total (AGRIT) and Agricultural Index (AGRI). We utilize the fuzzy set theory to contribute to the correct quantification of a country gap from the aimed-for condition of agricultural position. Using cluster analysis, we identify those countries with a similar position in agriculture. We test the efficacy of EU agrarian policy with the verification of sigma and beta convergence. The Eurostat database provides data for the evaluated 2005 – 2015 period.

• Details
• Contents