Creative industries as a factor of economic growth

Abstract

The modern economy is increasingly focused on sectors that combine innovation, a creative approach, and the use of digital technologies. It is these features that form the basis of creative industries, which are becoming an important element not only of cultural but also of economic policy in countries. For Ukraine, which is undergoing large-scale transfor­mations and facing crisis challenges, analysing the impact on national development takes on particular importance. It has been hypothesized that creative industries retain the ability to act as a catalyst for economic growth even under adverse conditions, creating new employment opportunities, and gene­rating added value, with the leading role belonging to the IT sector. The research methodology combines quantitative analysis of structural indicators (dynamics of the number of enterprises, employment level, sales volumes, profitability) with qualitative interpreta­tion of the results in comparison with international approaches recommended by UNCTAD and UNESCO. The information base consists of official data from the State Statistics Service of Ukraine, reports from the Ministry of Culture and Information Policy, and materials from international consulting companies. It has been proven that, contributing on average of 2-3% of Ukraineʼs GDP, the role of the creative industries goes beyond direct economic indicators. The multi­plicative effect is manifested in the stimulation of regions, the creation of highly qualified jobs, the enhancement of innovation potential, and the growth of national economic competitiveness. The obtained results emphasize the need to improve accounting methodology, expand the statistical database, and support the sector at the state level.