World Congress of Vine and Wine, the leading wine industry event, starts in Chisinau
More than 300 winemakers, researchers, oenologists, and policymakers from 51 member countries of the International Organization of Vine and Wine (OIV) will gather in Chisinau for the World Congress of Vine and Wine, which will take place from June 16 to 20 and is being hosted in the Republic of Moldova for the first time.
According to Ludmila Catlabuga, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry, a significant event dedicated to the wine sector will facilitate the establishment of new partnerships and promote Moldovan wines in international markets. Additionally, meeting participants will present solutions to enhance resilience against climate challenges and showcase innovations in wine technology.
New markets for premium wines
Ștefan Iamandi, the Director of the National Office of Vine and Wine, emphasized that this event will benefit not only the wine industry but also related sectors, such as HoReCa (hotels, restaurants, and cafes). Guests will have the opportunity to explore the culture of Moldovan wine through tours of wineries and tastings of local wines.
"We are focusing on three target markets, as we did last year: Poland, the Netherlands, and Romania. Consistency in these markets is vital because consumers need to hear about 'Wine of Moldova' year after year. These markets are known for consuming quality, premium wines. The average purchase price for these wines is often double that of what we export from the Republic of Moldova, ranging from $2.80 to $2.90 per litre. This price is significant compared to other markets. We are collaborating with wineries to promote these wines in Japan and South Korea. Additionally, we see potential for premium wines in other markets like Taiwan, Singapore, and Vietnam,” Iamandi told Radio Moldova.
Economic expert Marin Gospodarenco believes that the 12 million lei investment allocated from the state budget for organizing the congress is justified both economically and politically, especially in light of the current developments in the wine sector and efforts to promote our republic abroad.
He stated that wine serves as an "ambassador" for the Republic of Moldova internationally and that events like this have significant potential for economic multiplication.
"The Republic of Moldova, as the host, will gain valuable international exposure in an effort to position Moldovan wine on the global market as a quality product with a distinct identity and growth potential," the expert said in an interview with Daniela Gherman from Radio Moldova.
Wine sector: 2-3% to GDP and 5-7% to exports
Marin Gospodarenco emphasized the wine sector's structural significance for our economy, highlighting its contributions to Gross Domestic Product (GDP), exports, employment, and regional development.
"Historically, viticulture has been one of the oldest and most established industries in our country, and it continues to be a strategic sector with substantial economic and social impact. The wine sector contributes approximately 2-3% to the national GDP, a significant figure considering the size of the Moldovan economy. Additionally, over 50,000 people are directly or indirectly involved in this sector, whether in grape growing, wine production, exports, marketing, or wine tourism. This makes the wine industry an important driver of employment, particularly in rural areas. The Republic of Moldova also has the highest density of wine plantations per capita in the world. Wine is not only an economic product but also a cultural symbol and an integral part of our national identity," said Marin Gospodarenco.
In 2023, the Republic of Moldova exported wines worth nearly $150 million. Gospodarenco described this as a "notable performance," with wine accounting for 5-7% of total exports and ranking among the top five agri-food products exported from the Republic of Moldova.
Scientific sessions and winery visits
The scientific program for the World Congress of Vine and Wine will focus on the theme “Charting the Future of Vine and Wine: Embracing Resilience, Elevating Value, Fostering Innovation”. The sessions are scheduled to take place on June 16, 17, and 18 at the Palace of the Republic in Chisinau and at maib park. In addition to these sessions, the congress will include 13 technical visits to some of the most renowned wineries in the Republic of Moldova, as well as a gala dinner at the Cricova winery, which boasts the largest network of underground wine galleries in the world.
Since 2001, the Republic of Moldova has been a member of the International Organization of Vine and Wine, becoming the first country in the CIS to join this entity. Membership in this organization allows the Republic of Moldova to apply for grants that can finance research of national and global significance and engage world-class scientists to address challenges in this sector.
