Since 1991, when independence was declared in Ukraine, i.e. more than during 15 years now, discussions have been underway in the country whether it makes sense to introduce a fully-fledged agricultural land market, in particular, the possibility of land trading. The moratorium on purchase and sale of agricultural land was introduced by current Land Code of Ukraine till January 1, 2005 and then extended till January 1, 2007.1 Today the issue of introducing a fully-fledged agricultural land market is being debated again. Quite a lot has been said and written in this regard already.
The objective of this article is to destroy certain myths and inaccuracies concerning the functioning of agricultural land markets and to facilitate open public discussion about the necessity of introducing it in Ukraine. The methodology is based on independent experts assessments of opportunities created by a fully-fledged agricultural land market for sector development and improved well-being of rural residents, as well as potential threats that may emerge.
