Rapeseed remains a top-profit crop in Moldova
Following a year of record harvests, rapeseed continues to garner interest from farmers. This year, the cultivated area is estimated at approximately 158,000 hectares, including around 20,000 hectares in the Transnistrian region.
Rapeseed is a profitable crop because it is harvested early, providing farmers with their first income of the agricultural year, according to agro-market expert Iurie Rija in an interview with Svetlana Bogatu for the “Zi de Zi” program on Radio Moldova.
"This crop, harvested until September, gives them operational capital. It offers the first income, which strengthens their purchasing power and allows them to cover their costs and expenses, support internal supply, and pay off loans," Rija explained.
The expert noted that the vegetation index for rapeseed is currently good, and the temperature and humidity forecasts are favorable for its growth. However, he mentioned that this year's harvest will be slightly delayed.
Last year, Moldovan farmers achieved their largest rapeseed harvest to date, exceeding 295 thousand tons.
Rija estimates that the areas cultivated with rapeseed will not increase significantly because oilseed crops already occupy a significant share of the country’s agricultural structure. From an agronomic perspective, expanding cultivation beyond the current level is not advisable to maintain a balanced crop rotation. Nevertheless, rapeseed remains essential in crop rotation and is important for the livestock sector, where it is used in animal feed.
Rapeseed is one of the most significant oilseed crops grown in the Republic of Moldova, valued for its economic profitability and high demand in the European market.
Author: Veronica Doni, intern
