Prospects for sorghum cultivation as a niche crop in modern agribusiness

In modern conditions of agricultural production, accompanied by climate change, water scarcity, rising energy costs and the need to diversify crops, sorghum cultivation is becoming increasingly relevant.This niche crop demonstrates a high level of adaptability to arid conditions, low soil requirements and resistance to pests and diseases, which makes it an attractive alternative for regions with risky agriculture.Sorghum has a wide range of applications: it is used as a feed crop, for food needs, and in bioenergy.Of particular interest is the possibility of using sugar and grain sorghum for bioethanol production, which opens up additional economic benefits for agricultural producers.In addition, the high biomass yield allows this crop to be effectively used in the feed balance of farms.The study carried out a comprehensive analysis of the world and domestic experience in growing sorghum as a promising niche crop.Particular attention was paid to the dynamics of the areas of grain and fodder sorghum crops in the countries of the European Union, where there is a steady growth of interest in this crop.The current state and the need for high-quality seed material, which is one of the key factors in increasing sorghum productivity and ensuring its stable cultivation in various soil and climatic zones, were considered.A special emphasis was placed on the prospects for expanding the sales markets for sorghum products, in particular in the food, feed, and bioenergy industries.Based on the study, potential ways of integrating sorghum into modern business models of agricultural enterprises as an important element of the strategy for sustainable development of the agricultural sector were identified.The introduction of sorghum into the crop structure can contribute to increasing the climate resilience of production, product diversification, and strengthening food security.