ANALYSIS OF TRENDS AND PROSPECTS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE LEGUME MARKET IN THE CONTEXT OF MODERN ECONOMIC CHALLENGES

Abstract

The study aims to assess current trends and prospects for the legume market, analyse factors affecting supply and demand, and identify ways to boost the industry's economic efficiency in the face of modern economic challenges. The study is reinforced by the following applied tasks: 'Development of agrobiotechnological approaches to the production of crop products to restore the fertility of soils affected by hostilities'. The study focuses on the legume market as part of agricultural production and as an element of the state's food security system. The study focuses on the economic, agroclimatic and institutional factors influencing market performance, as well as the structure of demand and supply, and the level of yield and profitability of production. Data analysis revealed that Ukraine is a leading exporter of leguminous crops in Europe. Soybeans are cultivated on 168 thousand hectares, yielding 3.4 million tons; peas on 347 thousand hectares, yielding 610 thousand tons; chickpeas on 40 thousand hectares, yielding 50 thousand tons; and beans on 45 thousand hectares, yielding 50 thousand tons. The authors' own research into crop yields at Vinnytsia National Agrarian University under conditions of economic activity proved that the yields exceeded the average Ukrainian level for soybeans (2.67 t/ha), chickpeas (3.02 t/ha), peas (4.16 t/ha) and beans (3.63 t/ha). This indicates the potential for increasing productivity. Market analysis demonstrates its sensitivity to a range of external and internal factors, including world prices, weather conditions, military risks, logistical constraints, and investment activity. A SWOT analysis reveals strengths such as favourable soil and climatic conditions, agrobiological potential and export experience, as well as weaknesses such as lower average yields compared to leading countries, limited internal processing and uneven technical support. The following strategic directions for market development are proposed: increasing yield through the introduction of zonal cultivation technologies and modern varietal composition; developing an internal programme to deal with processing based on the high added value of products; diversifying export markets and logistics; and improving state support mechanisms. The expected effects of implementing the measures are an increase in average yields by 15-25%, an increase in profitability by 10-18%, an increase in gross receipts, and a strengthening of Ukraine's export potential. This will ensure long-term food security and competitive advantages in the international market.