THE DIRECTIONS FOR OPTIMIZING UKRAINE’S EXPORT POTENTIAL OF GRAIN CROPS IN THE CONTEXT OF CHANGING CLIMATIC CONDITIONS

The production and yield of grain crops in Ukraine from 2000 to 2019 was analysed in the article. The comparative analysis of gross harvest and export of grain during these years was carried out and the dependence of exports on gross harvest and its share was determined. The results point out that the export of grain crops has increased over the years under research, which indicates Ukraine’s significant export potential. Thus, leaving for the needs of the country from 16.0 to 36.6 million tons of grain (on average, 25.9 million tons), Ukrainian farmers export an average of 40.7% of the crop. During the period from 2000 to 2019, the gross harvest of grains in the country averaged 48.4 million tons resulting in the annual potential share of exports of at least 22.4 million tons. It was also found that the increase in the share of exports was made possible by a qualitative change in yield, which was due to the changes in crop growing technology. However, with global warming and climate change, new challenges for agricultural producers are emerging. The recommendations were given in order to improve the crop growing technology that will allow to overcome these challenges, further increase yields and Ukraine's export potential.