President Maia Sandu officially opened the 46th Congress of the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV), held from June 16 to 20 in Chisinau. The event gathered over 300 experts, producers, researchers, and officials from 50 countries.
In her speech, the Head of State emphasized the significant role that vine and wine play in Moldovan history, economy, and identity:
“In Moldova, wine is not just an agricultural product; vine and wine tell our centuries-old story. The vine carries the history of our traditions, our kinship ties, and a quiet yet firm resistance.”
She also highlighted Moldova’s wine sector transformation over the past two decades, including the revival of local grape varieties and the sector’s contribution to tourism development.
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“Hosting the World Congress of Vine and Wine this year recognizes the efforts of our small and large producers, the traditions they have carefully preserved, and the innovations they have courageously embraced. It also honors a sector that withstood empires, prohibitions, embargoes, and crises—growing stronger each time,” said Maia Sandu.
The International Organisation of Vine and Wine sponsors the Congress, which focuses on shaping the future of wine by embracing resilience, increasing value, and encouraging innovation. Participants will discuss sustainability, emerging consumption trends, technological innovations, and global challenges.
The event also promotes Moldova as a prominent wine-growing country, boasting the largest vineyard area per capita worldwide—approximately four hectares per 100 people. Over 80% of locally produced wines reach export markets, mainly Romania, Poland, Germany, the Baltic States, Nordic countries, China, and South Korea. The wine sector contributes about 3% to Moldova’s national GDP.
The OIV, headquartered in Paris, is an intergovernmental organization that unites 51 member states and coordinates scientific, technical, and economic activities in the global wine sector. Moldova has been a member since 1992.