Moldova's apple harvest drops 31.5% amid spring frosts
Moldovan apple producers are expected to harvest around 277,000 tons of fruit this year, a 31.5% decrease from the 404,600 tons harvested in 2024, according to the "Moldova-Fruct" Association.
The decline in production volume is attributed to two waves of spring frosts and a reduction in the area of fruit trees.
"In 2025, we estimate that roughly 70,000 tons, or 25.3% of the total apple harvest, will be exported—over 33,000 tons less than last year. Around 40,000 tons will be allocated to the domestic market, and approximately 167,000 tons will be sent for processing, representing a reduction of more than 84,000 tons compared to 2024," said Iurie Fală, executive director of the "Moldova-Fruct" Association.
According to the same source, European apple production is nearly identical to the 2024 level but is 7.5% below the average of recent years.
"The general trend in the European Union indicates a decrease in apple production compared to the average of recent years, with output projected to be 7.5% below the reference period. This is the case even though the estimated volume for 2025, at 10.46 million tons, is holding steady near the 2024 figure," added Iurie Fală.
This is also due to the effects of spring frosts, which were felt differently across regions. Countries in Central-Eastern and Southeastern Europe recorded losses, while some Western and Central states were unaffected and are even estimating an increase in production.
The data was presented at the annual Prognosfruit 2025 Conference, which was organized by the World Apple and Pear Association. "Moldova-Fruct" participated in the event, held from August 6 to 8 in Angers, France.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
