The table grape sector in Moldova is set to receive vital support through the One Country One Priority Product (OCOP) initiative, spearheaded globally by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). Under this initiative, a technical assistance project valued at $350,000 was formally endorsed today, with the signing ceremony officiated by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry Vladimir Bolea, alongside FAO Representative in Moldova Raimund Jehle.
During the signing event, Minister Vladimir Bolea underscored the synergy between this collaboration with FAO and the government’s steadfast commitment to fostering innovative and sustainable agricultural practices.
“This agreement’s implementation will catalyze advancements table grape value chain. It will promote intelligent, sustainable agriculture resilient to climate fluctuations. Also, it will facilitate the diversification of local markets and bolster export capabilities. I am confident that FAO’s expertise will prove invaluable to small-scale table grape producers, enabling them to adopt and leverage new technologies and methodologies to amplify production and sales,” remarked the Minister.
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Echoing this sentiment, FAO’s country representative, Raimund Jehle, emphasized that “this support is geared towards addressing immediate challenges while laying a robust foundation for enhancing the resilience and profitability of the table grape sector. This initiative aligns with FAO’s Regional Priorities, focusing on the development of small farmers, family farms, and young agricultural entrepreneurs.”
The OCOP Initiative empowers nations to spotlight and catalyze the development of value chains for Special Agricultural Products distinguished by unique qualities, geographical indications, cultural heritage, or untapped potential.
In Moldova, the annual grape production exceeds 130,000 tons, with 60 percent traditionally earmarked for export markets.