The preferences of foreigners put the Moldovan fruit into different classes by sorts and geography. The plums and grapes are preferred by the neighboring states, except for the CIS states, such as Romania, Poland, the Czech Republic and Slovakia and now also the states of Western Europe. Apples are exported mainly to the Eastern states, especially the CIS, executive director of the Association of Fruit Producers and Exporters “Moldova Fruct” Iurie Fala stated for IPN.

According to Iurie Fala, the export market for apples is slightly different because the EU is a key producer and player in the apples sector. The EU turns into a serious competitor and this has an impact on the selling prices.

The diversification of the export markets is a challenge for the Moldovan producers because the process implies the adjustment and orientation of fruit exports to a number of destinations. At the same time, the extreme weather conditions and the shortage of labor force are also challenges for the Moldovan fruit exporters and producers.

“This worries us. In order to offset somehow the negative effect, labor productivity should be improved by implementing technologies that would diminish manual work in the fruit growing sector,” stated the director of “Moldova Fruct.

Iurie Fala considers the fruit producers should yet work to diversify export markets. They should learn to trade with more distant states and not be afraid of possible risks because the internationalization of trade in fruit following the chaotic trade through shop chains will bring only benefits.

“These challenges should be dealt with not only by producers, but also by the state institutions that should do the necessary reforms and provide support in the key areas. We here count indeed on state support and, surely, on the support of the partners from the EU. The development partners, such as the donors, should also concentrate their efforts on increasing competitiveness,” stated Iurie Fala.

He added that the international standards do not scare the fruit producers and exporters of Moldova because they passed the EU’s “quality test” long ago. At the same time, the selling of Moldovan fruit in shops in Russia, which sometimes impose higher standards than the EU ones, represents an additional proof in this regard.