PRODUCTION AND FOREIGN TRADE IN LIVESTOCK PRODUCTS IN THE CONTEXT OF EUROPEAN INTEGRATION

Abstract

The livestock industry plays a crucial role in ensuring national food security, forming a stable supply of food of animal origin, and supporting the balanced development of the agro-industrial complex. An increase in the production of livestock products contributes to the growth of related processing industries and stimulates the production of goods with high added value, which is particularly important for strengthening the export potential of the national economy. Livestock farming in Ukraine traditionally occupies a significant place in agricultural production and has substantial export opportunities; however, over the past three decades the actual state of the industry has failed to realize this potential.

The development of the livestock sector during this period has been characterized by a persistent decline in the number of almost all types of farm animals, which has significantly complicated the provision of the population with essential food products of animal origin. Structural imbalances, insufficient investment, technological backwardness, and institutional constraints have negatively affected production efficiency and competitiveness. At the same time, recent years have demonstrated the sector’s capacity for adaptation under extreme conditions.

This article analyzes the dynamics of livestock numbers and the production volumes of key types of livestock products in Ukraine. It is shown that even after the outbreak of full-scale war, production indicators exhibited fluctuations rather than a sharp decline, indicating the sector’s resilience, flexibility, and ability to mobilize internal reserves. The study also examines trends in exports and imports of livestock products, identifying key changes in foreign trade flows and market orientation.

Special attention is paid to the challenges associated with the tightening of the European Union’s agricultural policy toward Ukrainian products, which necessitates a revision of national export strategies. The paper substantiates promising directions for the development of Ukraine’s livestock sector, including deeper European integration, diversification of export markets, modernization of production, and the expansion of deep processing aimed at increasing the share of products with high added value. The opening of the EU market creates significant opportunities for Ukrainian producers, provided that quality standards, sustainability requirements, and competitiveness are ensured.