Deputy Prime Minister : Moldovan agricultural exports tripled following liberalization of trade with EU

Chisinau, Oct 8 /MOLDPRES/- Moldovan agricultural exports have tripled following the liberalization of trade with the EU. Thus, before the liberalization, exports of quota products amounted to $ 26.9 million, and three years later, in 2023, our farmers reached exports worth $ 89.5 million, which is a 3.5-fold increase. Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Economic Development and Digitalization Dumitru Alaiba made the statement today.

"In a difficult period, marked by unpredictability, we have made the right choice, reorienting our trade towards the European Union - a stable and reliable partner. Moreover, the fact that the EU has extended trade liberalization for another year is a huge opportunity for our exporters. Our farmers have thus managed to become more competitive and find new markets in Europe", he said.

According to the official, Moldovan producers have exceeded the quotas for the export of certain products. More precisely, the quotas for plums were exceeded by 300%, cherries by 93% and grapes by 62%.

"These results are the best proof that our products are increasingly appreciated on European markets. This is the economy we are building: one that connects us with the West and where our entrepreneurs can compete globally. This is the way forward for the Republic of Moldova. We thank the European Union for this solid partnership", he said.

The European Union remains Moldova's main trading partner and investor. Currently, over 65% of our exports go to the EU and over 80% of foreign direct investment in the economy also comes from the EU.

This spring, the European Council extended trade liberalization between the European Union and the Republic of Moldova for another year. Moldovan producers can now export table grapes, tomatoes, garlic, apples, cherries, plums and grape juice to the European market without duties and quantitative restrictions.