ABSTRACT
The world-wide globalizations of economies as well as the science-based development of economies have had a direct effect on regional development. One of the most important factors, which have influenced the recovery of the economy, has been foreign trade. Regional development concept has been alive in Europe for several decades and is marked by changes in mode, measures, and priorities, but it has only recently been an issue in Lithuania. Thinking on the conditions of Lithuania priority should be given to promotion of growth poles with small and medium-sized business (SMB) in the field of regional development. In order to achieve effective regional development, it is important to assess the opportunities that exist for the economic development of SMBs, as well, as promote the growth of poorly developed regions, these two things go hand-in-hand. The chapter illustrates the uneven distribution of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the regions in the period of the years 1996-2000.
