Development prospects for the rostov agricultural machinery plant in the context of the transformation of the agro-industrial complex in southern Russia

The research article, examines the strategic development of the Rostselmash Combine Plant LLC (Rostselmash) amid the prospective transformation of regions in southern Russia. The study covers the period of acute structural restructuring in the agricultural machinery market from 2020 to 2025, characterized by declining sales of modern equipment, declining profitability for organizations in the Rostov Region's agro-industrial complex, and the high cost of borrowed capital. The authors substantiate the dual nature of the global socioeconomic crisis: while it is a consequence of macroeconomic turbulence, geopolitical constraints, and the aging agricultural machinery fleet, it also presents a window of opportunity for Russian high-tech manufacturers to consolidate their market share. The paper also provides a detailed analysis of the role of state import substitution and technological sovereignty policies. A multi-tiered system of support measures for the agricultural machinery industry is presented, including state development programs, national projects, subsidized purchases of domestic equipment, preferential leasing, cost reimbursement for manufacturers, and R&D incentives. Particular attention is paid to the resource potential of the Rostov Oblast macroregion. Successful localization of the component base and monetization of digital platform data are identified as key growth drivers for Rostselmash through 2030. Implementation of the optimistic scenario will allow the plant to increase its share of the domestic Russian market: in terms of ZUK RSM production, it has been a leader for many years, with a market share of over 80%; the same applies to the fleet in use (taking into account the Soviet machines that are still used in the farm) – too. The final recommendations focus on deepening the digitalization of the enterprise management system, implementing a risk-based approach, and developing human resources. A conclusion is drawn regarding the inevitable transition from an extensive model to technological superiority, which will ensure the company's status as an absolute monopoly in the Russian and global markets.