New group of producers to implement GLOBALG.A.P standard

Chisinau, 6 May /MOLDPRES/- A new group of 17 fruit, berry and grape producers from the Republic of Moldova started training on the implementation of food safety requirements according to GLOBALG.A.P and GRASP standards. The studies are organized by the Project of the US Agency for International Development (USAID) Hihg Value Agriculture in Moldova on 5-7 May.

Implementation and certification of GLOBALG.A.P. and GRASP confirms that the farm produces safe fruits and vegetables, and is responsible to its employees. At the same time, the GLOBALG.A.P. increases the competitiveness of fruit, grapes and vegetables on the international market, being demanded by large supermarket chains in the European Union and the Middle East.

„GLOBALG.A.P. is an international standard set in Europe for agricultural producers, recognized by traders in agricultural products and implemented in over 130 countries. GLOBALG.A.P. requirements cover the entire production process, from the selection of the land to the delivery of fruits and vegetables. The standard assures the consumer that fruits and vegetables are safe to eat, and their production process has a minimal influence on the environment, the company has a responsible approach to the health and safety of workers etc.", USAID specialists said.

According to Daniela Țîgulea, the representative of a company specialized in the production of grapes and plums, the GLOBALG.A.P. opens up new opportunities to expand the product's presence not only in the local market but also in the external one. "If we want to be competitive, we must comply with all requirements for food safety, workers' health and environmental protection. It is a step forward both for an individual business and for the development of the economy of the Republic of Moldova in general ", said Daniela Țîgulea.

GLOBALG.A.P.standards are implemented in the Republic of Moldova since 2006. The legislation of our country contains more than 75% of the requirements of GLOBALG.A.P., being mandatory for agricultural producers. In recent years, more and more Moldovan farmers are interested in implementing standards in their households, as it is a mandatory requirement for export to international markets. So far, about 70 agricultural producers have been certified, which has allowed them to expand the presence of Moldovan fruits and grapes on the shelves of store chains in various EU member states, such as France, Austria, Germany, Italy, Spain.

photo: moldovaagro.com