The economic essence and scientific genesis of corporate integration processes from the perspective of economic and legal support

The article examines the economic essence and scientific genesis of corporate integration processes in the modern socio-economic environment. The nature of integration forms arising from the consolidation of capital, resources, and business strategies at both micro- and macro-levels is revealed. Particular attention is paid to the evolution of academic approaches to defining integration – from classical institutional concepts to contemporary theories of corporate governance, compliance, and legal regulation. The study highlights key stages in the development of integration processes, including industrial, post-industrial, and digital phases, and analyzes their impact on enterprise competitiveness and the transformation of market structures. The necessity of comprehensive economic and legal support for integration processes is substantiated, including regulatory mechanisms of state policy, corporate law instruments, antitrust restrictions, and contractual safeguards. It is demonstrated that effective integration is impossible without legal mechanisms ensuring transparency, shareholder rights protection, and risk management. The author proposes a system of evaluation criteria for integration decisions that balances economic outcomes with legal requirements. The results of the research can be used to improve corporate governance practices, shape corporate integration policies, develop legal recommendations, and support further academic studies in the field of economic integration and business law.