The food industry in Ukraine, in particular confectionery, is one of the most attractive and promising sectors of the Ukrainian economy. However, recent developments, most notably the COVID-19 pandemic and the military invasion of Ukraine, have harmed the industry, which predefines the research relevance of its current state, prospects, and export potential. The research aims to analyse trends in the Ukrainian sweets market, study their export opportunities, identify industry leaders, and outline global trends in the industry. The methods used in the study are economic and statistical analysis, graphical methods, rating methods, and cartographic methods. The study identifies the main trends in the confectionery industry of Ukraine the dynamics of sales volumes and its structural composition. The share of exports in total sales by sub-sectors is presented. The countries that are the main importers of Ukrainian confectionery products, as well as those that are the key exporters of confectionery products in the world, are noted. Ukraine’s place among the world’s confectionery exporters by individual products is determined. The rating of companies producing confectionery products in the domestic market of Ukraine is determined. An analysis of the popularity of the identified companies among users, as well as an analysis of the popularity of individual confectionery products, is carried out. The market of chocolate products is segmented, and the rating of companies exporting confectionery products is compiled. The trends of the Ukrainian confectionery industry are compared with the global ones. The practical significance of the results obtained can be used in the activities of confectionery enterprises to assess their position in comparison with the main competitors in the industry, to identify key industry trends, and to direct their strategies following global industry trends.

Highlights

• The article aims to analyze the current state and export potential of the Ukrainian confectionery industry, identify industry leaders, and outline global trends, using economic and statistical analysis, graphical methods, rating methods, and cartographic methods. The study examines sales dynamics, export opportunities, and market segmentation, providing practical insights for confectionery enterprises to assess their position, identify trends, and align their strategies with global industry standards.