SPATIAL ASYMMETRY OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF PRODUCT MARKETS AND PRODUCTION RESOURCES OF LIVESTOCK IN SUMY REGION

Abstract

The article conducts a comprehensive study of the spatial asymmetry in the development of product markets and livestock production resources in the Sumy region under martial law. Based on a systematic combination of statistical, comparative, spatial, and cartographic analysis, the territorial distribution of cattle, as well as the dynamics of production of the main types of products (milk and meat) by administrative district for the period 2021–2025, was assessed. To quantitatively assess the depth of territorial concentration of resources, the Herfindahl–Hirschman index (HHI) was used; the calculated value for cattle was 2312.11 points, corresponding to a moderate level of concentration and indicating the presence of prerequisites for maintaining the stability of the regional agri-food market.

It was found that the overall reduction in the industry's production potential was uneven, due to varying levels of impact from military risks, security threats, land mining, and the disruption of logistics chains in border areas. Key spatial centers were identified: Konotop and Romensky districts formed the core of resource provision and milk production (accounting for over 55% of gross milk yield), while Sumy district retained a dominant position in meat production (over 52% in 2025). Cartographic visualization confirmed the presence of local centers and the lagging of peripheral border territories (in particular, Shostka district).

Scientific and practical recommendations were substantiated to improve the spatial organization of livestock farming through the application of differentiated regional policy and state support: the development of processing and logistics infrastructure in leading districts and the restoration of the material and technical base of enterprises in affected areas.