“Gold Grapes Logistic” cluster modernizes operations with support from Sweden, the UK, and UNDP

These new investments will help modernize production processes, improve work quality and open up new marketing opportunities in both local and international markets.

The equipment was purchased thanks to financial support from Sweden and the United Kingdom through the “Advanced Cross-River Capacities for Trade” (AdTrade) project, implemented by UNDP.

“The seven tractors distributed to cluster members will streamline fieldwork, enhance production processes, and increase work efficiency. In addition, the mentorship and training provided so far, combined with the new equipment, will facilitate the creation of new jobs in rural communities,” said Dumitru Parfentiev, UNDP/AdTrade project manager.

The modern grape sorting line will enable producers to significantly improve product quality and sell not only wholesale but also through retail networks.

“This sorting line is changing the way we operate, as we no longer deliver only in bulk; we can now access modern retail. This is a major advantage for cluster members and an opportunity to get closer to consumers. At the same time, it is a key step in diversifying sales channels and increasing competitiveness in international markets,” said Alexandru Arsene, the manager of the cluster.

Thanks to financial support totaling US$216,000 from Sweden and the UK through the UNDP/AdTrade project, the cluster plans to strengthen its infrastructure by acquiring new machinery and agricultural equipment, participating in business missions and specialized exhibitions, and developing a brand book and other promotional tools. These actions will increase producers’ visibility and contribute to export growth.

The “Gold Grapes Logistic” cluster, established in 2004, currently brings together 11 businesses from Ștefan Vodă, Căușeni, Slobozia, and Grigoriopol. Its members have joined forces to improve product quality and develop a modern logistics platform for storage, sorting, and packaging, thereby boosting productivity and expanding exports to international markets.

The cluster is one of six newly established economic clusters along the Nistru River, benefiting from total financial support of $1.3 million provided by Sweden and the UK through the AdTrade project. This initiative strengthens production capacities, expands value chains, and enhances the competitiveness of communities on both sides of the Nistru River. 

Since 2019, UNDP Moldova and its partners - the European Union, Sweden, Switzerland, and the UK - have supported clusters formation. Today, UNDP continues to support the development of 17 clusters, contributing to local economic growth and Moldova’s integration into international business networks.