Impact Of Biogenic And Energy Risks On The Competitiveness Of Meat Producers In Eastern Europe

The article examines the current state and development trends of the meat processing industry in Eastern Europe under the unprecedented impact of exogenous shocks and geopolitical instability. The mechanisms of biogenic risk influence, specifically the intensity of African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreaks, on the global transformation of production structures and the limitation of the regional export potential are investigated. The role of the energy factor as a critical determinant of production cost formation amid the destabilization of national power grids and high volatility of global energy prices is clarified. The competitive environment of the industry is analyzed using a modified Porter’s Five Forces model, which revealed a significant increase in market entry barriers due to the necessity of capital-intensive investments in autonomous power generation and multi-level biological protection systems. It is substantiated that the synergy of biogenic and energy threats causes forced asset consolidation and strengthens the market power of large vertically integrated holdings with access to affordable capital. A steady long-term trend of consumer demand shifting from red meat to the poultry segment is identified as a rational response to price instability and the shortage of high-quality raw materials in pig farming. The European experience of adapting processing enterprises to stringent Sustainable Development (ESG) requirements, particularly regarding carbon footprint management and the implementation of closed-loop energy-saving technologies, is summarized. The potential impact of updated trade regimes between Ukraine and the European Union on market share redistribution and shifts in competitive vectors for the 2025–2026 forecast period is assessed. Special attention is paid to the analysis of the industry's digital transformation, within which the necessity of implementing blockchain-based traceability systems to ensure veterinary security is argued. Conceptual approaches to enhancing the strategic resilience of enterprises through the diversification of energy sources and the integration of renewable energy into production cycles are formulated. The author’s methodology for the quantitative assessment of corporate competitiveness, based on integral indices of energy efficiency, logistic resilience, and innovative activity, is proposed. It is proven that strategic focusing on "clean label" products and the automation of deep processing are decisive factors for maintaining market viability in conditions of permanent crises. The research results can serve as a basis for adjusting state agricultural policy and developing comprehensive anti-crisis management strategies for the top management of food industry enterprises.