The economic activities in Ukraine are led by services at about 61.3% of GDP, with industry at 18.8% and agriculture at 7.4%. What are the main economic activities in Ukraine? Farming of wheat, maize, and sunflower seeds plus mining support a roughly $190.74 billion economy. This guide breaks down each sector and its role.
As of 2024, Ukraine had a GDP of approximately $190.74 billion USD (World Bank), recovering from the wartime contraction of 2022. The GDP per capita was about $5,389 USD (World Bank, 2024).
Despite the severe impact of the ongoing war, Ukraine’s economy returned to modest growth in 2023–2024, supported by international aid and a partial recovery in agriculture and services.
What are the economic activities of Ukraine?
- Primary activities (agriculture): about 7.4% of GDP.
- Secondary activities (industry): about 18.8% of GDP.
- Tertiary activities (services): about 61.3% of GDP.
Primary Sector of Ukraine
Ukraine’s primary sector, dominated by agriculture, thrives due to its fertile soils and diverse climate. With 71.3% of the land dedicated to agriculture, the country produces a variety of crops like maize, potatoes, wheat, and sunflower seeds, along with animal products such as milk and meat.
As of 2023, agriculture contributed about 7.4% of GDP (CIA World Factbook), yet it plays a crucial role in providing employment and sustaining rural communities. The sector’s significance lies in the wide range of products it offers, ensuring food security and promoting economic stability.
The primary sector benefits from the country’s diverse geology, providing abundant natural resources like iron ore, coal, and oil. This enhances the economy through mining, energy production, and agriculture, utilizing resources like arable land, timber, and salt.Ukraine’s oil economic activity plays a significant role in the country’s economy, with a daily production of around 33,235 barrels. Ranking 44th globally in oil production, Ukraine holds reserves of 395,000,000 barrels, accounting for 0.02% of the world’s oil reserves.Ukraine’s gas production of 19,000 million m³ in 2020 ranks it 34th globally, contributing significantly to the country’s economic activity.Secondary Sector of Ukraine
What is the secondary sector or what are secondary activities?The secondary sector comprises industries that transform raw materials from primary activities into finished products for consumption. In Ukraine, the main industrial products include industrial machinery, ferrous and nonferrous metals, automotive and aircraft components, electronics, chemicals, textiles, and construction materials.Manufactures in Ukraine’s total exports accounted for 30.12% in 2023, indicating their significance. However, other sectors may play a more crucial role in driving the country’s economy and trade balance.Tertiary sector of Ukraine
Military Activities and Economic Sectors of Ukraine
The military is a key example of various economic activities. In the primary sector, resources are extracted for military use, like metals and fuels. The secondary sector involves manufacturing military equipment, such as weapons and vehicles. The military also provides services in the tertiary sector, ensuring safety and support. Research and development in the quaternary sector help improve technology, while high-level decision-making in the quinary sector shapes military strategy.
As of 2024, Ukraine’s military expenditure was approximately $64.7 billion (SIPRI), equal to about 34% of GDP — the highest military burden of any country in the world that year. Ukraine maintains an active military force of roughly 1,250,000 personnel.
Biggest company in Ukraine
Which is the biggest company in Ukraine? By revenue, the largest company is Naftogaz of Ukraine, the state-owned oil and gas group, which leads the country’s corporate sector. The largest private company is the steel and mining group Metinvest, which reported revenue of about $8.05 billion in 2024. Both operate primarily in the secondary (industry) and primary (resource extraction) sectors of the economy.International Trade of Ukraine
Import Activities of Ukraine
Ukraine’s high import activities, accounting for 52.25% of GDP in 2023, play a crucial role in meeting domestic demand and supporting economic growth.Ukraine’s key import activities include refined petroleum, cars, natural gas, garments, and packaged medicine. Its top import partners are Poland (17%), China (12%), Germany (9%), Turkey (6%), and Hungary (4%).Exports Activities of Ukraine
Ukraine’s total exports in 2023 amounted to $36,185,539,498.82, accounting for 35.46% of its GDP. With export activities contributing significantly (medium importance) to the economy, diversification and stability in this sector are crucial for sustainable growth.Ukraine’s export activities are diverse, with key partners including Poland, Romania, Turkey, China, and Germany. The country primarily exports commodities such as corn, seed oils, wheat, iron ore, and rapeseed.Ukraine economy challenges in 2024
In 2024, Ukraine faces challenges in rebuilding infrastructure and agriculture post-war. Despite progress in anti-corruption reforms, the economy is still recovering from a 30% GDP contraction. International aid stabilizes foreign reserves, but the country struggles with balancing economic growth and reconstruction efforts.Sources
- World Bank Data: Ukraine
- IMF Data Mapper
- Heritage Foundation: All Country Scores
- CIA World Factbook: Agricultural Products
- Our World in Data: Human Development Index
- UN Comtrade Plus: Trade Flow
- sipri
Last updated: June 19, 2026
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