Import substitution as a factor of regional economic growth

The current state of import substitution in Russia is considered. The authors' definition is given to the concept of import substitution. The features of short-term and longterm strategies of import substitution are opened. The authors prove the need of diversification of the directions of foreign economic activity by reorientation of the foreign trade communications of Russia to the markets of the countries of CIS, the customs union and CES as well as the countries of the Asia Pacific region. The reasons of growth of import deliveries of foodstuff are opened. The comparative analysis of food consumption level in Russia is conducted. The food coefficients dependence on the most important food are calculated. The comparative analysis of productive indicators of domestic agricultural production with similar indicators of the foreign states is made. The strategies of import substitution for domestic agriculture taking into account its specifics and production potential, is offered. The assessment of potential of import substitution of Saratov region is presented. The priority actions on ensuring food security and growth of economy of the region are offered.