UKRAINE AS A KEY PLAYER IN THE GLOBAL GRAIN MARKET: CHALLENGES AND TRANSFORMATIONS
Abstract
The article examines the transformation of Ukraine's role in the global grain market in the context of deep geopolitical shifts caused by the full-scale invasion of the Russian Federation in 2022. The study identifies key factors influencing changes in production volumes, yields, and export dynamics of grain crops and outlines the main challenges and potential directions for the adaptation of Ukraine’s agricultural sector under wartime conditions. A detailed quantitative analysis was conducted on the dynamics of sown areas, harvested crop volumes, yields, and Ukraine's share in global grain exports for 2020–2024. The statistical analysis reveals a substantial reduction in both the sown area and harvested crop volumes starting in 2022 to this day. Importantly, even under wartime conditions, the effectiveness of harvest collection remained high, indicating the flexibility and resilience of Ukrainian farmers. The agricultural sector demonstrates the ability to adapt quickly and use resources efficiently under extreme pressure. The article also evaluates Ukraine’s position in global grain exports. The article identifies major obstacles affecting Ukraine’s export potential: military actions, resource shortages, port blockades, infrastructure constraints, rising logistics costs, lower business profitability, and regulatory barriers To overcome these challenges, the article proposes comprehensive solutions, including modernization of logistics and port infrastructure, railway adaptation to EU standards, creation of multimodal hubs, digitalization of customs procedures, development of value-added processing industries, market diversification, and strengthening international cooperation. In summary, the article provides an integrated analysis of Ukraine’s grain sector transformation during wartime, highlights key strategic risks, and outlines priorities for sustainable development and effective export capacity utilization. The findings have practical relevance for national policy, international cooperation, and the global food security agenda.
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