In 2024, agricultural production in the Republic of Moldova decreased by 15%. Over the past 10 years, the sector has experienced a cycle of five years of growth followed by five years of decline, ultimately falling below the levels seen in 2014. Economist Veaceslav Ionita provided these details.
The most affected crops were rapeseed (-60%), corn (-47%), and sugar beet (-32%). The livestock farming sector was the only one to grow, achieving a 5.7% increase.
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According to the economist, 31,000 farmers lost their jobs in 2024, and most of them, having no income in rural areas, are moving to Chisinau or abroad.
“Rural depopulation is no mystery – it links directly to the decline of agriculture,” Ionita stated.
The Republic of Moldova is the European country that uses the least water for irrigation.
Ionita noted that precipitation levels have decreased by 20% over the last 10 years, yet “we have not created an efficient irrigation system.” Without water, agriculture stagnates, and villages are dying.
The only real solution is a national irrigation system to help farmers recover.
“Anyone talking about rural development strategies without mentioning irrigation is out of touch with reality. If we want thriving villages and functional agriculture, we must start with what is essential: water,” the economist added.