INSTITUTIONAL PRINCIPLES OF FORMATION OF CROSS-BORDER TRANSPORT AND LOGISTICS CLUSTER IN THE CONDITIONS OF DIGITAL AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

At the present stage, the strategic vector of transformation of transport and logistics systems in the border regions of Ukraine and the Visegrad Four countries is the integration of transport and logistics infrastructure into a transport and logistics cluster. The purpose of the paper is to substantiate the institutional basis for the formation of a cross-border transport and logistics cluster as an effective form of cooperation between the border regions of Ukraine (Volyn, Zakarpattya and Lviv regions) and the Visegrad Four (Poland, Slovakia, Hungary). Methodology. The theoretical and methodological basis of the study is the provisions of institutional theory, in particular the paradigms of evolutionary development, the theory of clustering, the concepts of strategic and logistical management, enterprise development management. The following general scientific methods were used in the research process: analysis and synthesis, statistical analysis, classification and systems approach, comparison and structural-logical generalization. The article presents the results of analytical assessment of the current state of development of transport and logistics systems of the Visegrad Four. Based on statistical analysis, features, trends, barriers and challenges to the functioning of transport and logistics systems in the border regions of Ukraine have been identified. Results. In order to modernize the regional ecosystems of Ukraine and the Visegrad Four countries, the conceptual provisions for the creation of a cross-border transport and logistics cluster are substantiated. It is proved that this cluster structure should include enterprises in the field of transport and logistics, innovation infrastructure (technology parks, business incubators, industrial parks, etc.), state, regional and local authorities, NGOs, research institutions and centers, higher education institutions that are geographically concentrated in cross-border regions. It is established that for the implementation of the conceptual foundations of the formation of cross-border transport and logistics cluster it is necessary to use a set of mechanisms, which include: regulatory, institutional, organizational and economic, financial, social, informational, environmental. Practical implications. The results of the study can be used to refine the current legal and regulatory framework, namely in amending the Association Agreement between Ukraine and the EU, the Laws of Ukraine “On Cross-Border Cooperation” and “On Principles of State Regional Policy”, the State Development Program cross-border cooperation for 2021-2027, Regional Development Strategies of Volyn, Zakarpattya and Lviv regions until 2027 in terms of creating appropriate institutional conditions for the formation of cross-border transport and logistics cluster and determining the mechanism of financial support for its operation. Value/originality. The author's approach to the improvement of legal and institutional support for the development of cross-border cluster structures in Ukraine is formulated, taking into account European practice.