Methodological aspects of economic study of the dairy market

The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of the Ukrainian dairy market in conditions of economic instability and structural changes in the agricultural sector in 2021-2024. The study analysed the production, consumption, export, import and profitability of dairy products. The analysis revealed that during the period under review, total production decreased by 17% and there was a change in structure: the share of agricultural enterprises increased to 51%, exceeding households for the first time. It was found that consumption of dairy products decreased from 201.5 to 196 kg per person per year, which is almost half the recommended norm. It was found that despite the decline in domestic demand, exports showed positive dynamics: as of the beginning of 2025, their volumes increased by 17% in physical terms and by 57% in value terms compared to the same period in 2024. A reorientation towards Western markets and growth in exports of butter and condensed milk were identified, which can be considered indicators of the competitiveness of individual segments. The results of the analysis of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats highlighted the need for digital transformation of the market: in 2024, 72.3% of reports were already submitted online, and examples of the implementation of the latest technologies, such as by the private agricultural enterprise “Ukraine”, proved the effectiveness of using information and communication technologies. The study confirmed the adaptability of the industry and outlined areas for strategic improvement in its monitoring. The practical significance of the study lies in the fact that its results can be used to develop effective tools for economic monitoring, forecasting the development of the dairy market, and forming state support for agricultural enterprises