In 2023, Moldovan wine exports experienced a significant upsurge, soaring by 18% compared to the previous year, with a total volume reaching an impressive 123 million liters valued at USD 192mn.
This surge in exports was driven by robust demand from key markets such as Romania, Poland, the Czech Republic, the USA, and China, solidifying Moldova's position as a prominent player in the global wine market.
At the 7th National Wine Industry Conference, themed "Market Growth Strategies and Strategic Perspectives for Moldovan Wine," industry leaders convened to discuss pivotal strategies for the sector's advancement. Organized by the National Office for Vine and Wine (ONVV) and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry (MAIA), with support from USAID Moldova, the conference underscored the importance of enhancing the quality of Moldovan wine to meet international standards amidst stiff competition.
ONVV Director Ștefan Iamandi emphasized the industry's commitment to continuous improvement and highlighted the need for a comprehensive analysis of global market trends to inform strategic decision-making. As Moldovan Wine celebrates a decade since its international launch, stakeholders remain focused on evaluating its success and identifying opportunities for further growth.
Kent D. Logdson, Ambassador of the United States of America to the Republic of Moldova: "The United States, through USAID, has been supporting the Moldovan wine industry for several years, which truly represents the strength and potential of Moldova. During the nearly twenty years of support and after two heavy embargoes, this sector has transformed, adopted innovation, increased quality and reoriented itself towards high-value export markets."
Ilona Gruenewald, Program Manager, Delegation of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova: "The wine sector leads in terms of innovation, preserving traditions, and here the investments in quality and excellence, exploration of new markets and the creation of the authentic Moldovan brand stand out. Success is available for many wineries, small and family, but also for medium and large wineries. The EU will continue to support Moldova by providing European expertise, facilitating business links and services, financial support and investment facilitation. We will encourage sector competitiveness and social, ecological and economic sustainability."
Vladimir Bolea, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry: "Winemaking in the Republic of Moldova is on an upward trend, and this is confirmed by everyone. I want to congratulate you because this is the result of your work, the result of experiments that you were not afraid to do continuously, and as proof we have some globally recognized wines, which is due to production technologies."
Viticulture statistics unveiled at the conference revealed insights into the sector's landscape, with a total vineyard area of 122,000 hectares and 45,000 hectares dedicated to registered wine varieties. Despite challenges posed by climate change, which manifested in 2023 as the warmest year recorded, the industry remains resilient, adapting its practices to ensure sustainability.
Notably, 85% of Moldovan wine production was exported to 68 destinations, with bottled wines comprising a significant portion. The sector's performance was further underscored by the favorable reception of wines from designated regions such as PGI Codru and PGI Ștefan Vodă, which garnered acclaim despite less favorable climatic conditions.
The conference served as a platform for professionals to delve into marketing strategies, analyze global trends, and celebrate the achievements of Moldovan Wine. By fostering collaboration and innovation, the industry aims to solidify its position on the global stage and continue its trajectory of growth and success in the years to come.