INTERRELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CORPORATE DEVELOPMENT, ECONOMIC SECURITY AND COMPETITIVENESS OF AGRICULTURAL ENTERPRISES IN UKRAINE

The article examines the interrelationship between corporate development in agricultural enterprises and their economic security and competitiveness. It reveals that the formation of corporate structures in agribusiness (agroholdings, integrated associations, cooperatives) generates a synergistic effect that strengthens financial stability and enhances the adaptability of enterprises to external challenges. The study analyzes current scientific approaches to ensuring the economic security of agricultural corporations and maintaining their competitive positions in a turbulent environment. Purpose. The purpose of the study is to theoretically substantiate the role of corporate development in enhancing the economic stability of agricultural enterprises and to provide a practical analysis of integration tools aimed at strengthening competitiveness. Methodology. The research applies a comprehensive approach combining the principles of institutional economic theory, as well as system and functional analysis, along with monographic and statistical methods for generalizing results. Results. It is established that the corporate structure of an enterprise (particularly membership in an agroholding or other integrated entity) serves as an essential factor in ensuring economic resilience and protection from bankruptcy risks. Integration processes (mergers, acquisitions, cooperation) enhance the adaptability of agricultural enterprises to external shocks, such as market fluctuations, military actions, or global crises. Corporate development in the agricultural sector is viewed through the lens of Ukraine’s strategic agri-industrial transformation: the transition to sustainable business models, digitalization, and European integration introduces new requirements for economic security and competitiveness. Scientific novelty. The study substantiates a conceptual model describing the systemic interconnection between corporate development, economic security, and competitiveness of Ukraine’s agricultural enterprises under global and wartime economic challenges. Practical significance. The conclusions and recommendations can be applied in the development of corporate strategies for agricultural enterprises, in formulating state policies for supporting large agricultural associations and cooperatives, and in improving mechanisms of economic security within the agrarian sector.