Economic efficiency of preservation and utilisation of livestock products in the agrarian sector of the economy

The purpose of this study was to investigate the ways of increasing the economic efficiency of agricultural production by improving the systems of preservation and rational use of livestock products. The methodological framework of the study included a comprehensive approach, as well as the analysis of statistical data, structural-dynamic and comparative analysis, and elements of system and factor analysis. Gross output of livestock production in Kazakhstan increased from KZT 2,066.4 bn in 2015 to KZT 3,012.5 bn in 2023. Therewith, the number of cattle increased from 6.18 mn heads in 2015 to 7.98 mn heads in 2024, while the number of horses more than doubled from 2.07 mn heads to 4.35 mn heads over the same period. The analysis results showed that despite the steady growth in herd numbers and gross output, the efficiency of conservation is still at an average level. This is related to the deterioration of refrigeration infrastructure, poor development of the cold chain, lack of qualified personnel, insufficient digitalisation of logistics processes, and specific climatic features of the regions. Milk production volumes have almost halved. Losses at the storage and transport stages are also reflected in the decline in egg production from 5.59 bn eggs in 2018 to 4.48 bn in 2024. The study substantiated those investments in the modernisation of storage infrastructure, digitalisation of logistics, and development of deep processing are not excessive costs, but a tool to optimise the production process and increase the sustainability of agribusiness. The following strategic development areas were also proposed: development of agro-industrial clusters, development of cooperation, improvement of personnel skills, expansion of state support, and introduction of environmentally sustainable technologies. It was concluded that increasing the level of safety of livestock production in Kazakhstan can not only reduce losses, but also increase the profitability of farms, strengthen the food security of the country, and its export potential