Innovative and digital determinants of the competitiveness of economic sectors in conditions of global instability and post-war recovery

Abstract

Introduction. Global economic instability, digital transformation, environmental challenges, and the consequences of military hostilities increase the need to reconsider the factors shaping the competitiveness of Ukrainian economic sectors. Technological innovation, artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, data analytics, business process greening, human capital development, and adaptive management models are becoming particularly important. The study aims to systematize the innovative and digital determinants of sectoral competitiveness and identify their impact on economic efficiency, resilience, and post-war recovery potential. Methods. The methodological framework combines systemic and cross-sectoral approaches with comparative analysis, generalization, classification, structural and logical modelling, and scientific synthesis. The information base includes scholarly publications addressing innovation development, industrial digitalization, maritime and transport logistics, agriculture, tourism, hospitality, information technologies, and regional economic development. Results. The study identifies the principal groups of competitiveness determinants, including technological innovation, digital maturity, resource efficiency, environmental responsibility, logistical adaptability, human capital development, financial autonomy of territorial communities, and institutional security. The findings demonstrate that artificial intelligence, IoT systems, intelligent analytics, and digital platforms can reduce operating costs, optimize transportation routes, increase business margins, modernize production processes, and improve managerial decision-making. Green transformation, decarbonization, emission monitoring, and the use of environmentally friendly materials are shown to generate additional competitive advantages and create new market opportunities. The analysis also indicates that the effectiveness of technological modernization depends on access to investment, the integrity of digital data, the availability of qualified personnel, and the ability of institutions and enterprises to manage innovation-related risks.

Discussion and Conclusions. An integrated model of sectoral competitiveness is proposed, combining technological, economic, environmental, social, and institutional dimensions. The model demonstrates that digitalization should not be treated as an isolated technological process but as an element of broader structural transformation. Its implementation may support post-war economic recovery, stimulate investment, improve productivity, strengthen regional development, and enhance the positions of Ukrainian enterprises in domestic and international markets.