The essence and characteristics of investment provision for the agricultural sector development of Ukraine

The agricultural sector of Ukraine plays a key role in ensuring the state’s food security and forming a significant export potential. However, insufficient investment support hinders its development, limiting opportunities for modernization, innovation, and increased competitiveness. In the context of war and post-war reconstruction, attracting investment in the agricultural sector becomes critical for economic recovery and sustainable development. The article conducts a comprehensive study of the essence and features of investment support for the development of the agricultural sector of Ukraine. Theoretical approaches to defining the essence of investment support are summarized, the current state of investment support for the agricultural sector is analyzed, the main problems and prospects for attracting investment in the context of war and post-war reconstruction are identified, and recommendations for improving investment support mechanisms are developed. It is explored that investments in the agricultural sector of Ukraine should be considered strategically important investments aimed not only at profit-making but also at ensuring national security by guaranteeing food independence. In the context of the economy’s cluster organization, investments should contribute to forming vertically integrated structures capable of effectively using resources, implementing innovations, and increasing the competitiveness of agricultural products. The National Bank of Ukraine data analysis shows a clear correlation between the increase in geopolitical risks and the reduction of investments. However, despite the general instability of the investment climate, the agriculture, forestry, and fishing industries demonstrate a steady trend of increasing foreign direct investment. The research results will contribute to developing an effective strategy for attracting investment in the agricultural sector, a key factor in ensuring food security and sustainable development of Ukraine’s economy. Keywords: investment support, investments, investment resources, agricultural sector, direct investments, investment process, agriculture, sustainable development, cluster organization.