Experience in the formation of agri-food chains in leading countries of the world and directions of its use in domestic practice

The article highlights the experience of formation agri-food chains in leading countries of the world and substantiates the directions of its use in domestic practice. The factors that influence the formation and functioning of agricultural supply chains are systematized, namely: organizational; regulatory; scientific and methodological. The participants of the agri-food chain are identified and the factors that determine their characteristics are taken into account, the consideration of which ensures the adoption of informed management decisions. The importance of information development and communication links between supply chain participants are emphasized, which ensures their efficiency and sustainability. In general, global agricultural supply networks operate on the basis of creating vertical marketing systems using basic logistics, which achieve a significant reduction in transportation costs, storage costs, unloading and loading, as well as increase the turnover of material resources and reduce inventories. It is argued that the elements of the distribution infrastructure play an important role in the stable functioning of the agricultural supply chain, which is confirmed by the experience of foreign countries where the corresponding departmental state structures or institutes have been created. The experience of the world's leading countries in the formation of agri-food supply chains is highlighted and the following features are emphasized: the creation of relevant state institutions; the creation of integrated associations that provide a wide range of logistics functions; the development of logistics centers, PL operators; the functioning of information and advisory services; the use of scientifically based logistics principles as the basis for the formation and functioning of agri-food supply chains. Foreign experience is systematized regarding the features of the creation and functioning of PL operators, logistics centers, warehouse facilities, transport organizations and their functions are analyzed. It is concluded that in the conditions of the country's recovery, it will be necessary to include in the developed strategic programs the restoration of capacities for the production of agricultural products, food and distribution infrastructure by increasing their investment attractiveness for domestic and foreign investors. The directions of distribution infrastructure development as an important participant in agri-food chains in domestic practice according to European practice are substantiated. The need to maintain the principles of sustainable development at all levels of the agricultural supply chain as mandatory conditions for ensuring their competitiveness and sustainability is proven. Key words: supply chains, agri-food products, distribution infrastructure, logistics centers, PL operators, information and consulting services.