International practices of using the cluster approach for the development of integration processes

Abstract

The research paper considers the existing approaches to defining the essence of clusterization and clusters in foreign economies, and presents the analysis of conditions leading to the emergence and development of industrial clusters. Some practices of forming cluster structures in the developed countries are described. The role of industrial clusters in providing real economic growth and increasing efficiency of production is clarified. It is proved that using the cluster approach in Ukraine is a necessary foundation for a revival of regional manufacturing and thereby ensuring a high level of the national economy’s competitiveness. The aim of the article is to undertake an in-depth study of international concepts and axiomatic doctrines of integration processes on the basis of using the cluster approaches, which may become the foundation of applied research devoted to efficient functioning of industrial associations as a priority of structural modernization and acceleration of innovation and

investment growth of the national manufacturing.

The cluster approach has emerged from implementing a policy of foreign countries focused on the development of regions. Implementation of clustering in international activities clearly demonstrates its advancement and efficiency. An important factor of improving efficiency is the organizational factor associated with the regional association of manufacturers. The regions in whose territories clusters are formed become leaders in national economies and foreign economic relations.

The study of the basic concepts of competition and global practices of business activities allows us to conclude that the theory of cluster mechanisms serves as a basis for establishing more successful firms and economic systems. Cluster systems combine the most effective and interconnected types of economic activity by grouping successfully competing firms that form the leading component of the whole economic system of the state and create competitive positions in the sectoral, national and global markets. The cluster approach, which was originally used to research issues of competitiveness of individual groups of enterprises, subsequently have become applicable in solving a wider range of tasks: the analysis of the competitiveness of the state, region, sector; as a basis of national manufacturing policy; as a basis for the interaction of big and small businesses.