ANALYSIS OF THE BALANCE OF PRODUCTION AND CONSUMPTION OF FRUIT AND BERRY PRODUCTS IN UKRAINE

Abstract

In the article was analyzed the current state and trends of development of the production and consumption of fruit and berry products in Ukraine. The article identifies problematic aspects of the activities of business entities in the modern economic realities, outlines possible ways of leveling or minimizing the impact of existing problems, and determines the prospects for the further development of agricultural enterprises and households. It was established that Ukraine has a significant natural resource, material, technical and human potential for increasing the volume of production of fruit and berry products to meet the consumer needs of the population for high-quality products on the domestic and foreign food markets. In particular, the conducted analytical studies indicate an increase in the production of fruit and berry products in general and per person, which is due to an increase in the yield of fruit and berry crops with a significant reduction in the fruit-bearing areas of perennial plantations, an increase in export-import operations. It was determined that the lion’s share in the volume of production of fruit and berry products in Ukraine is provided by the households, which for a long time have made a significant contribution to meeting the consumer needs of the population and remain significant players in the food market. It is substantiated that the further increase in the volume of production of fruit and berry products is connected with the development of small and medium-sized agribusiness, which is flexible enough and able to quickly respond to the challenges of the current situation in Ukraine. In order to ensure competitive advantages, create prerequisites for the further progressive development of the horticulture industry and balance the volumes of production and consumption of fruit and berry products, it is proposed to intensify activities related to the use of resource-saving production technologies, to improve the varietal composition of fruit and berry crops, to create and expand opportunities for the processing, freezing and storage of products in the places of their cultivation, to search for additional sales channels for fruit and berry products for the maximum realization of the export potential of Ukraine.