Diversification of clean production technologies as a basis for agribusiness recovery and economic security

Abstract

The article states that the agricultural sector has always been and continues to be the main driving force of Ukraine's economy. Before the full-scale war, Ukraine was among the top five leading countries in terms of food exports. However, the full-scale war has led to significant losses in agribusiness and, consequently, threats to its economic security. The agricultural sector can be restored by adopting business models focused on the diversification of clean production technologies, which aligns with Ukraine's ambitious goals of transforming the country's economy into a low-carbon model. It is emphasized that some agricultural enterprises attempt diversification by growing niche crops, overlooking that diversification involves entering other types and areas of production and economic activities. It is substantiated that diversification is a business model aimed at reallocating resources into new activities, creating new opportunities for better utilization of potential, ensuring the economic security of the enterprise, and promoting its economic growth. It is highlighted that agribusiness currently has significant opportunities for diversification through the production and export of biomethane. Using the example of the Gals Agro agribusiness holding, the feasibility of agribusiness diversification into clean technologies is demonstrated. The potential and forecasts for biomethane production by agribusiness are examined over short- and long-term time horizons. It is emphasized that for the development of biomethane production, the Ukrainian government has created the necessary regulatory framework, highlighting its advantages and gaps that require urgent resolution. It is noted that key issues such as the launch of a biomethane registry to provide guarantees of origin, the development of infrastructure to ensure sufficient biomethane transportation capacity, and state support for infrastructure development remain unresolved. Measures are proposed to create a favorable environment for the development of biomethane production by agribusiness, thereby ensuring its economic security and growth.