LOGISTICS INFRASTRUCTURE AS A FACTOR IN THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF AGRICULTURAL EXPORTS IN THE SARATOV REGION

This article examines the role of logistics infrastructure in shaping the export potential of the Saratov region’s agricultural sector amid geopolitical transformations and the reorientation of foreign trade flows. The relevance of the study lies in the region’s strategic location at the junction of Europe and Asia, as well as its importance for the development of agricultural exports to the EAEU and Asia-Pacific countries. The aim of the study is to identify key logistics barriers and propose tools for enhancing the competitiveness of regional products. To achieve this goal, methods of analysis and synthesis, as well as statistical modeling, were used. The study revealed that the main problems include congestion on the eastern railway corridor, difficulties obtaining Russian Railways (RU) permits under the GU-12 standard, a high share of logistics costs, and a shortage of refrigeration capacity. Particular attention is given to the problem of “abandoned trains” on the border with China and the insufficient capacity of the Saratov River Port. Statistics confirm that despite a 26.2% increase in trade turnover with Kazakhstan over a five-year period and a fourfold increase in exports to China, the current infrastructure does not ensure efficient cargo delivery. The authors have developed a concept for a multimodal agro-logistics hub in the Engels region, integrating rail, road, and river transportation. It is shown that implementing these measures will reduce logistics costs by 12-15%, shorten grain delivery times to export ports by 2-3 days, and increase the region’s agricultural exports to $1.2 billion by 2030. Particular importance is placed on strengthening cooperation with Kazakhstan as a transit country for accessing the Chinese market, as well as the participation of regional producers in international exhibitions. The theoretical contribution of the study lies in deepening the understanding of the relationship between infrastructure development and export dynamics.

agroexport, logistics, cargo transportation, meat products, export, logistics infrastructure, Saratov region, GU-12, rail transportation, logistics hub, export potential

Lyavina M. Yu., Kuldorov A. A., Eryushev M. V. Logistics infrastructure as a factor in the economic development of agricultural exports in the Saratov region. Biznes. Obrazovanie. Pravo = Business. Education. Law. 2025;4(73):30—36. DOI: 10.25683/VOLBI.2025.73.1458.