Building Cooperation to Boost Moldova’s Dried Plum Exports

The workshop allowed participants to discuss the current challenges and solutions needed to meet the standards of premium products and become competitive in the face of the rigorous requirements of foreign markets.

Producers expressed concerns about export difficulties but also stressed the importance of support in achieveing key improvements. Among the topics discussed were the organization of homogeneous batches, improving product quality and promoting collaboration between companies. "We understood that it is important to cooperate, to join forces, production and investments in order to access high-value markets and become competitive", said Vasile Gorceac, representative of SRL Prunovigor from Varzaresti, Nisporeni.

A special element of the workshop was the open exchange of experiences between participants. They agreed that the following sessions would be more practical, giving each of them the chance to share their journey and learn from the solutions applied by others.

The event was organized by the Moldova Fruct Association, with the support of Switzerland and Helvetas organization, through the OPTIM Project.

According to 2024 data, the Republic of Moldova ranks 7th globally in the ranking of countries exporting dried plums, with an annual volume of about 10,000 tons. The main export markets include Romania, Ukraine, Italy, France, Bulgaria and Morocco. The steady increase in exports in recent years underscores Moldova's potential to expand its presence in international markets.

"Maintaining and expanding exports is essential for the future of this sector. Moldova has the opportunity to become a reliable partner in the market of premium products ", said Alexandra Bicu, marketing specialist at Moldova Fruct.

This workshop was just the first step in a collaborative and learning process that could support dried plum producers to become stronger on the international stage.