European support for Moldovan farmers: Tariff quotas extended
The European Union's decision to extend tariff quotas for four categories of Moldovan fruits highlights the progress made by Moldovan farmers and their increasing alignment with European standards. This was stated by Alexandra Șian, State Secretary at the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry, during the "Pâmânt și Oameni" show on Moldova 1. The new quotas will not only allow for greater exports but also provide new opportunities for Moldovan farmers.
The quota for plums has increased fourfold, rising from 15,000 tons to 61,000 tons. For cherries, the quota has tripled, from 1,500 tons to 4,500 tons. The volume allowed for export of table grapes without customs duties has doubled, increasing from 20,000 tons to 40,000 tons. Additionally, the export quota for Moldovan apples has seen a 25 percent adjustment, going from 40,000 tons to 50,000 tons.
Alexandra Șian explained, "The period during which the Republic of Moldova benefitted from a total liberalization of these quotas allowed us to showcase our production capacity and quality. Buyers from the EU had the opportunity to evaluate our products. These quotas reflect our export capabilities."
The European Union's decision highlights the progress made by Moldovan farmers and their adaptation to European standards.
"When we discuss the EU market, we are referring to a large market with 500 million potential consumers, as well as significant networks that most producers aim to reach," added the Secretary of State at the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry.
Official data indicate that since the implementation of the Association Agreement, which includes the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area, the European Union has become the primary trading partner for the Republic of Moldova, accounting for 65% of the country's total trade. Furthermore, domestic exports to the EU market have doubled over the last ten years.
