THE IMPACT OF THE WAR ON THE UKRAINIAN HONEY EXPORT TO THE EUROPEAN UNION

Abstract

The article examines the peculiarities of honey exports from Ukraine, focusing on current trends, challenges, and prospects for the industry's development. Ukraine is one of the world's leading honey producers and exporters, and its supply to international markets plays a significant role in the development of the country’s agro-industrial complex. The article analyzes the main markets for Ukrainian honey, with key destinations including the European Union, the United States, Canada, the Middle East, and Asia. The challenges faced by domestic producers and exporters such as fluctuations in demand, competition with other producing countries, and stringent quality and certification requirements are outlined. The impact of foreign economic policy, legislative changes, and international market requirements on the honey export process is highlighted. The key factors driving industry development are identified, including the adoption of innovative approaches to improving product quality, optimizing logistics processes, expanding product range, diversifying export markets, and implementing modern beekeeping methods. The role of state support, international cooperation programs, and initiatives aimed at stimulating the industry's growth is also considered. Special attention is given to the impact of the war on Ukrainian honey exports. The article analyzes the main consequences of hostilities for the production process, including the destruction of infrastructure, the mining of agricultural land, the loss of production capacities, and the decline in the number of beekeepers in affected regions. The major difficulties caused by the blockade of seaports and the disruption of logistics routes are summarized. Possible adaptation mechanisms for exporters are proposed, such as diversifying logistics routes, expanding the geography of supplies, and utilizing alternative financial instruments to mitigate economic challenges. The study relies on statistical data, analytical materials, and expert assessments to evaluate the current state of Ukraine’s honey exports and forecast future trends in the industry amid global economic shifts and geopolitical instability. Despite the significant export potential, due to the qualitative characteristics of the products and natural conditions favorable for beekeeping, Ukrainian exporters have faced a number of problems. The main sales markets, in particular the countries of the European Union, the USA and Asia, remain key export destinations, however, logistical difficulties, blockade of ports, destruction of transport infrastructure and increase in transportation costs have significantly complicated access to international markets. It was concluded that to overcome the existing problems it is necessary to expand alternative logistics routes, in particular through the western borders of Ukraine, to cooperate more actively with international organizations and donors to support producers.