Cluster approach as a fact or of innovative development of the national economy and increase of competitiveness

The article gives a substantiation of application of the cluster approach as the factor of innovative development of national economy and increase of competitiveness. Problems of innovative development and competitiveness of the Belarusian economy are identified, d the essence of cluster is defined, the types of clusters in the economy are analyzed, the role of clusters in innovative development of the national economy is justified. As part of the identification of clusters in the Vitebsk region, the coefficients of localization of production in the region, per capita production and regional specialization are calculated and analyzed in the context of types of economic activities. Petrochemical, textile, leather and footwear potential clusters are identified. Basing on research findings, the main directions of organization of innovation and industrial clusters in the economy of The Republic of Belarus, including measures of state support of clustering and measures to ensure the cluster initiatives and cooperation are defined.