This article is devoted to the relevance of the development of the agro-industrial complex of Russia as one of the most important sectors of the country's national economy, the functioning of which is a decisive condition for ensuring the food security of the Russian Federation. The relevance of food security is due to many economic and political reasons. Existing economic sanctions against Russia are forcing a deeper engagement in food security issues. The suspension of interstate trade relations in connection with the fight against viruses (for example, coronavirus) can also lead to a shortage of food in the country. Sufficiency of food products can be ensured by the development of agriculture, which is the main source of raw materials for the food industry. The authors consider the attitude of the state to agriculture at various stages of the country's socioeconomic development. The article shows the need and urgency in the development and implementation of significant measures of agricultural support by the state, including assistance in obtaining affordable credit resources, the involvement of highly qualified specialists in agriculture and the processing industry (the formation of human capital in the agro-industrial complex), distribution of leasing and agricultural machinery, approval of tax benefits for agricultural producers. Such targeted activities state will significantly strengthen the country's food security and improve living standards.