THE EVOLUTION AND CHALLENGES OF UKRAINE’S DAIRY SECTOR IN THE CONTEXT OF EU ACQUIS ADAPTATION

The article looks into the current trends shaping milk production and the broader dairy industry in Ukraine, offering a comprehensive analysis of the sector’s dynamic transformation. It examines the major structural shifts in production patterns, including changes in farm sizes, technological adoption, and the growing concentration of market players, which are reshaping the competitive landscape. The study further reveals the latest trends in the production of dairy products, as well as the evolving patterns of foreign trade, with a dedicated focus on trade relations with the European Union. By identifying the key problems and inherent weaknesses of the dairy sector, the article highlights the critical barriers to growth and competitiveness. Finally, it outlines the principal challenges confronting Ukraine’s dairy sector and milk production as the country progresses toward aligning its national legislation with the EU acquis.