Industry 4.0 in ensuring innovative development of exporting enterprises

Abstract

Purpose of the study is to theoretically and methodologically substantiate the role of Industry 4.0 in ensuring the innovative development of exporting enterprises and identifying areas for increasing their competitiveness in the context of global digitalization. Methods: systemic and structural-functional analysis, scientific generalization of the essence of Industry 4.0, diagnostics of the impact of digital transformation on export performance and SWOT analysis of the implementation of digital technologies in export-oriented enterprises. Results. Theoretical approaches to the impact of Industry 4.0 technologies on the innovative development of exporting enterprises are systematized, taking into account both internal and external factors of competitiveness. It is determined that the transfer of Industry 4.0 technologies contributes to increasing the efficiency of production processes, innovative activity and flexibility of business models, and affects the increase in export indicators. Analysis of the dynamics of the share of IT services exports in GDP and the structure of Ukraine's exports in 2019–2024 showed the growing role of the digital economy as a driver of innovation processes. The use of SWOT analysis allowed us to systematize the strengths and weaknesses of digitalization, as well as to reveal opportunities and threats for export activities in the context of global economic and geopolitical challenges. The main obstacles to digitalization were identified - high investment costs, a shortage of human resources, and the vulnerable integration of innovation ecosystems. In order to improve efficiency functions, practical recommendations were proposed for the phased implementation of Industry 4.0, the development of digital competencies of personnel, and increasing the resilience of export-oriented enterprises to global challenges. Conclusions. Industry 4.0 is an important factor in the innovative development and competitiveness of exporting enterprises, ensuring increased export performance through the digitalization of production, despite existing financial, personnel, and institutional barriers.