The paper addresses selected indicators of the development of agri-food sector based on knowledge and (outlays on R&D, innovations) and quality of labour force (education level) in Polish agriculture versus other EU countries. Conducted analysis showed that as regards the development of agri-food sector (mainly agriculture) based on knowledge and quality of labour force Poland is ranked very low. In order to handle such situation Poland should increase outlays in this respect at a rate higher than in other EU countries as well as intensify the utilisation of the EU funds.