85% of Moldovan plums exported to the EU, with higher volumes and better prices
Over the past decade, the Republic of Moldova's foreign trade has undergone significant changes. The European Union has emerged as the primary trading partner, with Romania consistently supporting us during economic challenges—ranging from Russian embargoes to recent crises, as noted by economist Veaceslav Ioniță. A clear example of this shift is seen with plums. Previously, 100% of Moldova's plum exports went to the CIS countries, but now 85% are sent to EU member states. Countries like Germany, Romania, and Poland have become key traditional markets for plum exports from the Republic of Moldova.
Moldovan plums mature later than those from other regions, with 70% of the harvest being exported in September and October, coinciding with the end of the harvest season in EU countries.
Last year, over 22.3% of the plums exported from the Republic of Moldova were sent to the German market. Exporters also secured better prices, with an average increase of 35% compared to 2023.
“The Republic of Moldova extends the fresh plum season in Germany by two to three months, which makes us highly attractive in the European market,” emphasized Veaceslav Ioniță.
According to the expert, Moldovan plums remain competitive due to their high quality. Despite having higher prices than producers in other countries outside the European Union, Moldovan producers dominate the German plum market.
Veaceslav Ioniță also noted that Romania is a significant market for Moldovan plums, accounting for 18.6% of exports. He stated, “It would be a shame to lose this market because nine out of ten imported plums consumed in Romania are from the Republic of Moldova.”
On September 18, the European Union announced its intention to eliminate customs duties on seven agricultural products from the Republic of Moldova to strengthen bilateral trade relations. The products include plums, table grapes, apples, tomatoes, garlic, cherries, and grape juice. While these products are already exported to the EU market, they do not yet enjoy full liberalization.
The EU is the primary market for Moldovan products. Data from the National Bureau of Statistics reveal that between January and July of this year, the Republic of Moldova exported goods worth $1.2 million to EU countries, which accounted for 66.3% of the country’s total exports.
