Moldova is rapidly becoming a major source for Europe in a range of fruit products. According to Iurie Fala of Moldova Fruct, the country has taken big steps forward in terms of its fruit export: "Big progress on the export of plums to Europe was already made in the last few years, but now with the summer season starting also the signs are positive for as well cherries and table grapes."
The sector organization Moldova Fruct started a new export coaching program, now especially for producers and exporters of cherries, plums and grapes. "Last week, 12 companies were visited by Fred Janssen, a marketing and management specialist and Piet Schotel, FFV sector expert. The selected companies are coached in writing an export marketing plan and in how to do the business with European buyers."
It appeared that in general, the Moldovan production of fresh fruit developed very quickly over the last few years, Schotel said. "Not only is a major part of the production GlobalGap certified, but other protocols such as GRASP and SMETA are also being implemented. A next step, already in process, is to certify the packing facilities with IFS or BRC."
The packing and storage facilities are big and modern, for cherries there are already many hydro coolers installed and for plums and grapes packing lines are ready, also for packing in retail packages. With the quality, volumes, packaging options and certifications, Moldovan exporters are ready to enter the European retail business.
For more information:
Mr. Iurie Fala
Moldova Fruct
Tel: +373 693 66 424
Email: [email protected]
Piet Schotel
Fruit Consultancy Europe BV
Tel: +31 6 533 818 97
Email: [email protected]