Some regional trends in Finnish farming with special reference to agricultural policy

Abstract

The structural change in Finnish farming has been rapid. Simultaneously, the productivity in agriculture has increased and overproduction has been a problem since the 1960s. The development has not been similar throughout the whole of the country, however. This article deals with the regional changes in Finnish farming as well as the effects of agricultural policy practised to restrict overproduction and to equalize regional differencies in the agricultural income of farms. Also, the role of farm forests in farming will be discussed. In the future Finnish agriculture will have to adapt its production due to both foreign and domestic factors. The practising of agriculture is in danger especially in northern Finland. In order to improve the living conditions in the countryside and to keep the countryside populated, not only agriculture but also rural industries in general should be developed.