Apple growers diversified sales markets

Chisinau, May 3. / MOLDPRES /- Moldovan apple growers have begun to diversify their fruit markets. In recent weeks, exports to the markets of the European Union, from the former Soviet Union and the Middle East, have intensified. Following several meetings and debates with fruit growers, the relevant associations and due to the cooperation of producers with the Government, as well as with diplomatic missions, exports to Romania and other countries have increased, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry (MAIA) has reported.

According to the institution, the largest commercial networks across the Prut sell apples produced in the Republic of Moldova. In March-April alone, more than four tons arrived on this market and exports continue.

"Before the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, the market of the Russian Federation assimilated more than 95% of the apples that our country exports, because the preferences of consumers corresponded to the proposed range of apples. In the context of the difficult situation, the complicated export conditions, the Moldovan apples continue to be demanded on the Russian market, so in March - April, over 26 thousand tons were delivered, which is 66.5% of the quantity of apples exported during the period", the MAIA said.

Usually, about 200 thousand tons of apples are exported annually to the Russian Federation. Also, this month, the export to the United Arab Emirates increased, reaching the figure of over five thousand tons, according to the quoted source.

Central authorities have made joint efforts to increase exports and are continuing to take more action to identify alternative markets so that all fruit can be marketed. Discussions on this dimension are ongoing with Egypt, India and China.

At the same time, about 10-12 thousand tons were consumed on the domestic market, and some were transported for processing.

Currently, there are about 45 thousand tons of apples in stock. "It is important that quality Moldovan apples are in demand, which inspires confidence that by the time the first fresh fruits appear in the year 2022, all apples will be marketed," a statement of the Ministry of Agriculture reads.

Photo: MAIA