UNDERSTANDING AGRICULTURAL EXPORTS

The agricultural sector is a critical component of the world's economy and society. Its long‐term health depends heavily upon international transfers driven by comparative advantages. This article's basic theorem is that effective export programmes must be simultaneously founded on grass‐roots political support, economic comparative advantage, and domestic vertical development. The mechanics for establishing broad‐based political support are addressed first, followed by criteria for targeting to international markets with the most favourable demand and government incentives. Finally, the evolutionary aspects of comparative advantage are discussed in the context of long‐term economic and political support from producers, processors and related technology suppliers involved in targeted export strategies.