President Igor Dodon said a special fund in support of farmers will be created and the citizens could transfer money to this to support the agricultural sector affected by drought and hail. The decision was taken in the August 12 meeting of the Supreme Security Council, IPN reports.
“We decided to set up a special fund, as in the case of COVID-19. All those who want from outside the country can provide support to the farmers of the Republic of Moldova, who were affected by drought. I’m firmly convinced that our foreign partners will also react and will offer assistance in this regard,” said President Dodon.
He noted that Moldova has witnessed unprecedented drought this year. The first group grain crop fields were about 70% affected.
The harvest of first group grain crops was projected at 600,000 tonnes, as opposed to the usual amount of 1.2-1.3 million tonnes. This year the harvest will represent 45-50% of the quantity gathered the previous years. There were harvested 440,000 tonnes of wheat, as to the 1 million tonnes obtained last year. “The country’s food security can be ensured with 360,000 tonnes. Despite the difficult situation this year, the food security is ensured,” noted Igor Dodon.
As to the fruit trees, the official said these were affected by the spring frosts and the global harvest is expected to be by 10-20% lower than last year. Apricot trees were 80% affected, peach trees 50%, while apple tress 20%.
Igor Dodon also said that the agriculture support fund this year is of 1.1 billion lei. About 300 million lei will be allocated additionally. The authorities also bank on the foreign partners’ support, including on a special loan from the World Bank.
