From Cahul to Europe: Moldovan grapes on their way to the European market

Founded in 2021, the cluster emerged out of the need to increase the visibility of Moldovan products on the European market and promote sustainable and quality agriculture. 

"The cluster allowed us to unify production technologies. Export conditions have improved and price negotiations have been more efficient, especially due to increased volumes and product diversification," said Sergiu Mihov, manager of the "Table Grapes" cluster.

From East to West: Opening towards the European market 

Before the war and the pandemic, the cluster's exports were mainly directed to CIS countries. With the support of the "EU4Moldova: Focal Regions" programme, funded by the European Union and implemented by UNDP and UNICEF, cluster members have been able to diversify products and access new markets. 

Today, 40% of Cahul's table grape production reaches the tables of consumers in EU member states. 

"The CIS market has changed and we are now focusing on access to supermarket networks in Romania and other European countries. These efforts will have a significant impact on our exports," said entrepreneur Petru Mihov.

EU investment for the future of Moldovan farmers 

With funding of €100,000 obtained through the "EU4Moldova: Focal Regions" programme, the cluster has invested in modern machinery, increasing production capacity and helping to create new jobs in the region. 

It also modernized a specialized hall for sorting, packing and storing grapes in optimal conditions, using a modern refrigeration system. 

Cluster members have benefited from training sessions, study visits and exchanges of experience, including through a collaboration agreement with a cluster in Romania. These initiatives have helped to develop entrepreneurial skills and improve production standards. 

In the future, the table grapes cluster aims to diversify its product range by investing in local varieties and expanding exports to European markets. This process will involve investing in the workforce and adapting sustainable practices to protect the environment.