Agro-logistics: necessity and opportunity for the development

The author's definition of the term “agro-logistics” is given in the article. The main task of agro-logistics is formulated. The main principles that point out the relevance of the agro-logistics development are outlined. These principles include the analysis of research information about losses of agricultural sector due to an “inefficient” logistics as well as the study of experience of major developed countries, in which agricultural producers employ a logistics approach. The losses of the agricultural sector in Ukraine due to an “inefficient” logistics are shown. The experience of domestic and foreign agricultural producers, that utilize the logistics approach, has been categorized; it was awarded the highest ratings on a scale of international agribusiness. It is concluded that the necessary theoretical and methodological platform already exists to support the development of agro-logistics in Ukraine and that respective prerequisites for that development have been fully designed. The article outlines further research perspectives: the development of whole concept, principles of agro-logistics as well as core provisions of its policy to be implemented at both state and regional levels.