Formation of the competitive potential of the agricultural territories

The purpose of the study is to develop a mechanism for the formation of the competitive potential of the agricultural territories of Kazakhstan as the basis for ensuring the dynamic development of agricultural business in Kazakhstan. The research methodology is based on strategic alternative modeling for agricultural territories competitiveness management with the help of fuzzy cognitive logic. The study used a cognitive approach to decision making in the management of poorly structured systems proposed by V. Silov and actively developed in the works of modern scientists. Fifteen competent experts were invited to select the concepts and build a fuzzy cognitive map of the formation of the competitive potential of the agricultural territories of Kazakhstan. To carry out calculations and justify the content of the strategy, the authors used the software product “Intelligent generation of the best alternatives” (“IGLA”). The result of the study is the developed strategy for the management of agricultural territories competitiveness in Kazakhstan with a set of strategic goals and the best option for managerial impact, ensuring the formation of agricultural export potential of the region. The proposed version of the content of the strategy for managing the competitiveness of the agricultural territories of Kazakhstan can be used either as a system or as its separate elements in managing the development of agricultural business in the country and in developing strategic planning programs for the agro-industrial complex of the region. The novelty of the study in theoretical terms is justified by the approach to the formation of the country's agricultural export potential through ensuring the competitiveness of its agricultural territories. In methodological terms, the novelty of the study is expressed by the use of cognitive modeling technologies to develop a strategy for managing the competitiveness of Kazakhstan's agricultural territories, the implementation of which will allow achieving sustainable dynamics of agricultural production and increase the efficiency of the agricultural economy. © 2020 by author(s) and VsI Entrepreneurship and Sustainability Center.