This optimistic scenario is laid out in the Strategy for the Development of Table Winegrowing. The document envisages that the sector will be transformed into a competitive, climate-resilient and inclusive one. The completion of the framework strategy was announced by the country offices of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).
“The table grape sector occupies an important place in Moldovan agriculture. We have tradition and experience, and in recent years we have started to introduce modern technologies, such as the Pergola system, and to grow competitive grape varieties. However, our potential is much higher than the current results,” said Andrian Digolian, State Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry MAIA.
To achieve this goal, the action plan focuses on four interrelated outcomes. These are climate change adaptation measures, including the development of new irrigation reservoirs with a capacity of 1.5 million cubic meters. As well as the replacement of traditional plantation systems based on vertical trellises with Pergola systems, also equipped with drip irrigation.
At the same time, the strategy encourages improvements in marketing and quality, promoting greater compliance with European and other international standards. This involves the creation of a robust post-harvest infrastructure, including sorting and packing centers, certification to standards such as Global G.A.P., and registration of geographical indications (GIs) to differentiate Moldovan grapes in high quality export markets.
To ensure equitable distribution of benefits, the plan focuses on inclusive growth and improved livelihoods by supporting smallholder farmers through their cooperation. The successful adoption and implementation of the strategy is expected to create more than 1,500 new jobs.
“The success of this initiative is based on a collaborative approach in line with ASTA and OCOP methodologies. Complementing the analysis, we have moved to jointly develop financially viable business models. The support of the government and the participation of the newly formed OCOP National Working Group ensure that the implementation of this ambitious plan is nationally owned, transparent and sustainable,” said Tudor Robu, FAO Deputy Representative in the Republic of Moldova.
“The ASTA approach, jointly implemented by FAO and UNIDO, ensures that industrial development and economic competitiveness go hand in hand with social inclusiveness and environmental sustainability. This sound strategy for the Republic of Moldova serves as a model for high-impact investments in the long-term future of the table grape sector,” said Dona Scola, UNIDO National Country Program Coordinator.
The National Investment Plan now provides a detailed list of seven improved business models, ranging from the establishment of joint post-harvest facilities for small-scale producers to the expansion of production.
