According to the National Bureau of Vine and Wine, in 2024, Moldova exported 24.6 million bottles of flavored wines (vermouth) of 0.75 liters, which is 949% more than in 2023. The amount of shipments amounted to $43.7 million (+942%).
Undoubtedly, it was a success that impressively influenced the export statistics of Moldovan wines by country. But it depends only on one company. Moldova could not and cannot influence the world market by one winery, which produced vermouths not under its own trademark, but on the order of an American company, under its brand.
The circumstances were such that after the introduction of duties of 31% on all goods imported to the USA from the Republic of Moldova, it became unprofitable for the American company to place its order in Moldova. Although, if something changes, it does not refuse to cooperate. According to Logos Press, the customer of Moldovan vermouths from the USA decided to use the services of wineries in California and other countries, to which a lower rate of duties is applied. In other words, Americans will still buy vermouths under the same brand, but their country of origin will no longer be Moldova.
For this reason, our success ceases to be so significant. As they say, one swallow does not make a spring. In order for Moldova to become an influential player on the world vermouth market, at least a few companies should produce vermouth in significant volumes on a permanent basis.
