Agriculture is a strategic sector of the economy and has deep traditions in Bulgaria. In 2009 the gross value added generated by the sector of agriculture was estimated at BGN 1,506 million and farming jobs totaled nearly 90,000, excluding the employment in food industry and other sectors of light industry. Besides food production, the agriculture has also contributed to the development of rural economy, environmental protection and biodiversity conservation. Given the strong demographic trends worldwide and the current food crisis in terms of growing  concerns with regard to the climatic changes it is necessary to adopt a strategic approach to contribute to the development of modern and competitive agriculture, so that Bulgaria, with all its unique products, occupies a solid place not only in the European, but also in the international market. It takes an active agricultural policy to help preserve and develop agriculture as a viable economic sector in Bulgaria, an active policy ensuring fair income to farmers to enable them have a normal life and invest in future growth of their business.