From heritage to high-tech: The strategic rise of Moldova’s export sector
The Invest Moldova Agency has launched a strategic international communication campaign to position the country as a high-quality, reliable trade partner. The initiative debuted on the BBC, highlighting the modernization of the nation’s key industries.
The campaign spotlights a shift toward quality-driven business models. Moldovan producers are increasingly adopting international compliance standards to meet the rigorous demands of global retail markets.
A record-breaking year for wine
Moldova’s wine industry reached a ten-year milestone in 2024, with exports hitting £180M—approximately €215M (approx. 4.2B MDL). This represents a 22% increase compared to the previous year, driven by expansion into the UK, Germany, and Asia.
The BBC featured the iconic Cricova winery, a UNESCO-listed underground complex, as a prime example of this success. Beyond its role as a tourism hub attracting 100,000 visitors annually, the facility serves as a critical export engine.
To maintain this momentum, the sector relies on a centralized Vine and Wine Register. This digital tool ensures full traceability, complemented by international certifications such as ISO and SGS.
Modernizing the fruit supply chain
The agricultural sector is also seeing rapid transformation. In 2024, Moldova exported over 266,000 tons of fruit and nuts, accounting for 6.6% of the country’s total export volume.
Exporters like Velfruct are leading this change by investing in automated sorting lines and controlled-atmosphere storage. Such upgrades have secured IFS Food certifications, a prerequisite for partnering with major European retailers.
Strategic access to funding from the World Bank and the European Investment Bank has accelerated this growth. However, producers emphasize that taste remains their ultimate competitive edge.
"Buyers return for the flavor profile. They say Moldovan products are simply different," sector representatives told the BBC, underlining the unique value proposition of the "Made in Moldova" brand.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
