The year 2023 was a successful one for Moldovan fruits. Cherries, plums, grapes, and apples produced in Moldova found their way to an increasing number of consumers in the European Union and on such distant markets as Gulf countries and Asian regions. Moldovan producers adjusted their production and post-harvest technologies, ensuring high-quality and safe products. In 2023, Moldova exported 12.5 times more cherries to the EU than in 2022. It was also a record year for plum exports, reaching 78 thousand tons. Germany imported 7.5 thousand tons of Moldovan plums, ranking third among EU countries importing plums from Moldova.
In the table grape industry, Moldova experienced a remarkable increase in exports in 2023. A total of 77 tons of table grapes from the 2023 harvest were exported, with over half of this quantity reaching the markets of the European Union and the United Kingdom. The expansion into 31 countries globally underscores the international recognition of the quality and taste of Moldova’s table grape varieties, representing 95% of the exported varieties.
Growing results are also noted in apple exports to European countries, with premier shipments to Sweden and an increased presence in Romania, the United Kingdom. Such destinations as Asia and Middle East markets have become already traditional for Moldovan apple exporters and their share is gradually growing for the last 5 years.
During Fruit Logistica 2024, Moldova caught people’s interest with its first networking event, ‘Taste without Borders’. The event, attended by fruit importers, supermarket representatives, and the media, highlighted Moldova’s progress in diversifying fresh fruit exports, overcoming challenges, and promoting international collaborations.
`The European Union’s decision to extend the suspension of import taxes and tariff quotas on Moldovan exports until June 2024 has been a game-changer. Moldovan fruits, including cherries, plums, apricots, grapes, and apples, have gained heightened visibility in the EU market. Our exporters adhere to the highest international standards, holding certifications such as GlobalG.A.P. and GRASP, this helped them find a stable place in the EU market’, mentioned Iurie Fala, Executive Director of the Moldovan Fruit Producers and Exporters Association.
Being present at the event, Deputy Prime-minister, Minister of Agriculture of the Republic of Moldova, Vladimir Bolea emphasizes: ‘Moldova’s fruits have not only become a symbol of quality but also a testament to our dedication to sustainable and responsible agricultural practices. We invite you to taste Moldova fruits, to collaborate with our producers and to be part of our success.’
