Moldova May Scrap Provisions for Uncreated Horticulture Office

Amendments to the Fruit Growing Act. Is the Fruit Growing Office – which was never established – to be abolished?

The draft law, which sets out clearer rules for determining when fruit and berry plantations enter the fruiting stage, has been passed at first reading by the Parliament of the Republic of Moldova. Minor amendments are still possible before the draft is considered at its second and final reading.

Vasile Șarban

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The new criteria for determining the start of fruiting are being established taking into account farming systems, the characteristics of the variety and rootstock, as well as other specific features of orchards and soil and climate zones. The document in question provides for amendments to the Law on Horticulture. Procedures for recording the start of fruiting and for the acceptance of fruit and berry plantations in their first year of growth will be carried out in accordance with standards approved by the government.

There will be no duplication of functions between state bodies

Another significant amendment contained in the draft bill concerns the removal from the aforementioned law of provisions relating to the activities of the Fruit Growing Office (organisational structure, functions, funding).

Logos Press note: The Fruit Growing Office has not yet been established. The process has encountered differing views amongst associations in the fruit-growing sector regarding the remit of this organisation. Previously, MAIA State Secretary Vasile Șarban, in conversation with an LP correspondent, suggested that the legislative acts relating to this organisation would be repealed. It appears that this is indeed what is happening.

In other words, responsibility for developing and implementing policy in the horticulture sector will remain with the competent state bodies that currently exist. “This measure will avoid duplication of administrative functions and prevent additional costs for producers and exporters of fruit and berry products,” states a press release from the Ministry of Agriculture.

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