PROSPECTS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF CONCRETE PRODUCTION IN THE CONTEXT OF RECONSTRUCTION IN UKRAINE

Abstract

Before the start of the full-scale war, the concrete industry in Ukraine demonstrated stable growth due to the active development of the construction sector and the introduction of modern technologies. High demand for residential, commercial and infrastructure construction contributed to the modernization of production, the transition to high-performance concrete mixtures and market expansion. Ukrainian companies actively worked on energy-efficient solutions that met global trends and contributed to increasing the durability and quality of building structures. However, after the start of the war, the industry experienced a significant decline: currently, concrete production is operating at 30-40% of pre-war capacity. The main reasons were the increase in fuel costs, which led to a 40-50% increase in product prices, the destruction of infrastructure and a decrease in construction activity. The unstable political and economic situation reduced investments in construction, which negatively affected the demand for concrete. Despite the difficulties, domestic concrete producers are trying to adapt to new conditions. Kyiv region remains the main center of production, but activity is also observed in other regions, in particular in Lviv, Zhytomyr and Chernihiv regions. Among the leaders of the industry are Kovalska, Grand Beton, Astor Invest (Cemark) and Prombudtsentr. Large companies have significant production capacities, which allows them to remain competitive even in difficult conditions, while small manufacturers provide local markets. To overcome the crisis, the industry must focus on several key areas. A steady growth in demand is expected due to the post-war reconstruction of the country, which will be accompanied by state support programs. Important factors will be the development of technologies, localization of production and reduction of dependence on imports. Also promising is the expansion of exports to countries that need building materials for their own reconstruction. Ukraine's investment attractiveness will play a significant role in the further development of the industry. The participation of international partners, grant programs and possible reparations from the Russian Federation can provide additional financial resources for the modernization of production. Given the strategic importance of the concrete industry for the country's recovery, its further development requires careful research and a comprehensive approach to implementing innovative solutions.