THE EVOLUTION OF ASSOCIATIVE FORMS IN AGRICULTURE/FRUIT GROWING CULTURE IN ROMANIA

Abstract

In Romania, there is a significant diversity of forms of association that operate in various fields, both
based on the activities carried out and on the specifics of the economic branches, at county, regional
and national level. This diversity includes, but is not limited to, producer associations, producer
groups, cooperatives, branch unions, etc. Over time, the activity of these associative entities has been
subject to a legislative framework that has evolved to respond to the specific needs and challenges
faced by these organizations. The present study aims to provide a detailed analysis of the evolution
of the forms of association in Romania, focusing on identifying the essential similarities and differences
between cooperatives and producer groups. This analysis will include an in-depth examination
of the organizational structure of cooperatives and producer groups, based on the latest available
data on this sector of the economy. In assessing the current state of fruit farms in Romania, a detailed
analysis of data from 2005 – 2020 was carried out, considered the most recent source of information
at farm level. This assessment was carried out using an approach that considered the legal form of
the farms, their physical and economic size, and the development regions in which they are located.
Thus, the study will not only bring to the fore relevant information about the fruit sector, but will
also contribute to a deeper understanding of the dynamics and diversity of the forms of association
in Romania, providing a solid basis for future research and development in this field. In addition,
the analysis will also include aspects related to the impact of climate change on production, as well
as consumption trends influencing the fruit market. These elements are essential to outline an overview
of the challenges faced by farmers and to identify opportunities for growth and adaptation in
the face of global change. We will also examine the role of agricultural policies and subsidies in
supporting the sector, highlighting how they can stimulate innovation and sustainability, but also the
vocational training of farmers, which has contributed to increasing the number of plantations, the 

quality of products and their diversification. The importance of European grants thus becomes obvious,
as they have not only stimulated the increase in the number of fruit farms, but have also contributed
to the development of a more competitive and innovative agricultural economy in Romania.