The walnut sector in the Republic of Moldova shows significant development potential, as nearly one third of commercial walnut plantations have not yet entered the fruit-bearing stage. Authorities say the coming years could bring substantial growth in production and exports, but they stress that success depends on investment and compliance with proper agricultural technologies, according to bani.md.
Grigore Baltag, head of the Plant Sector Policies Directorate within the Ministry of Agriculture, says during an appearance on Agro TV that Moldova currently maintains around 38,000 hectares of walnut plantations, of which about 25,000 hectares belong to commercial farms and economic operators.
He explains that government policies focus mainly on producers targeting the market and aiming for higher productivity and quality. He adds that out of the 25,000 hectares managed commercially, nearly 10,000 hectares have not yet entered the fruit-bearing stage, meaning the sector will continue to develop in the coming years.
Baltag notes that walnut cultivation remains one of the most expensive agricultural investments because it takes several years before trees begin producing yields. He says this high entry cost discourages many farmers from investing in the sector, although future output will increase as immature plantations enter production.
Currently, the Republic of Moldova produces around 15,000 tons of walnuts annually, with more than half exported. Export revenues reach approximately 40 million US dollars per year.
He states that about 8,000–9,000 tons go to export markets and that the sector’s export value remains around 40 million dollars, while still having significant growth potential.
Baltag also highlights ongoing challenges, noting that old or low-yield plantations are being uprooted each year. He explains that some orchards were established on unsuitable land or without proper agronomic practices, underscoring the need for better planning and agricultural knowledge from the planting stage.