Published in Scientific Papers. Series "Management, Economic Engineering in Agriculture and rural development", Vol. 22 ISSUE 3
Written by Nelė JURKĖNAITĖ, Rasa MELNIKIENĖ

The Lithuanian agricultural system survived paramount structural changes after the country had joined the EU. This paper investigates the case of peas. The study applies qualitative and quantitative methods in order to identify the potential of this raw material and map the most important solutions that allow to increase value added by introducing new products. Results suggest that in 2004 the harvested peas were mainly directed to domestic uses, while in 2020 farmers were mainly producing this crop for the export of dry peas. Indeed, the creation of the higher value-added products is a desired alternative for the locally produced raw material. The combination of literature and other relevant sources analysis and expert interviews allows us to identify food and feed directions as the most attractive ways to increase value added. However, experts suggest that the Lithuanian market imposes some restrictions on business development.

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