The Moldovan government has approved the launch of negotiations and the signing of a financing agreement with the European Investment Bank (EIB) for a €150 million loan aimed at developing the country’s agri-food sector.
The funding will be provided through the “Livada Moldovei II” (Moldova Orchard II) project, which is designed to support investments in horticulture, viticulture, grain production, livestock farming, aquaculture, agricultural processing, post-harvest infrastructure, digitalisation, and irrigation systems.
According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry, around €135 million, or 90% of the loan value, will be directed to micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises. The remaining €15 million will be invested in agricultural research, education, food safety, and public services supporting the sector.
Authorities say the project will help modernise agriculture, improve the competitiveness of local producers, strengthen agri-food value chains, and preserve jobs in rural areas.
“Livada Moldovei II” follows the first phase of the programme, which was also implemented with support from the European Investment Bank. Under the initial project, approximately 620 agricultural investments received financing, including orchards, vineyards, post-harvest infrastructure, food processing facilities, and agricultural research initiatives.
The government expects the new programme to further accelerate investment in Moldova’s agricultural sector and support its long-term development.