CURRENT STATUS AND PROSPECTS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE LIVESTOCK PRODUCTS PROCESSING SECTOR IN UKRAINE IN THE CONTEXT OF A WAR ECONOMY

Abstract

Introduction. The sphere of processing livestock products is an important component of the agri-food sector of Ukraine, which ensures the formation of added value, food security of the state and the development of export potential. In the conditions of a war economy, the functioning of the industry is complicated by the reduction of the raw material base, the destruction of the logistics and energy infrastructure, the shortage of financial resources and the need to adapt to European standards of quality and product safety.

Purpose. To investigate the current state of the sphere of processing livestock products in Ukraine, to identify the main problems of its functioning in the conditions of a war economy and to substantiate promising directions for further development of the industry.

Materials and methods. The information base of the study was the statistical data of the State Statistics Service of Ukraine, scientific publications of domestic scientists and analytical materials on the development of the agri-food sector. The research process used methods of economic and statistical analysis, comparison, generalization, a systematic approach and graphical display of results.

Results. It was established that in 2022–2025 the industry suffered significant losses due to military operations, however, enterprises gradually adapted to new business conditions. A positive trend towards an increase in the role of agricultural enterprises in the production of meat, milk and eggs was identified, which contributes to the formation of a more stable raw material base for the processing industry. The presence of structural imbalances between milk production and processing was determined, due to a significant share of households in the production of products and the non-compliance of some raw materials with the requirements of industrial processing. The growth in sales and exports of processed products, especially in the meat industry, was proven. The need for modernization of enterprises, the introduction of energy-efficient and resource-saving technologies, as well as deepening integration into the European economic space was substantiated. Prospects. Further development of the livestock processing sector is associated with the restoration of production potential, attracting investments and state support, developing cooperation between producers, forming effective value-added chains, and expanding the export orientation of the industry. Important areas remain the introduction of innovative technologies, improving product quality and safety standards, and ensuring the competitiveness of Ukrainian enterprises in international markets.