The late frosts of this spring have affected the horticultural sector in Moldova, causing significant damage to orchards in multiple districts. According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry, over 8650 hectares of orchards have been affected, resulting in major crop losses, as reported by IPN.

The apricot, plum, cherry, walnut, and apple trees are the most affected species, especially due to the negative temperatures that persisted for seven to eight consecutive nights. Estimates show that the apricot and plum harvest will decrease by up to 45%, while cherry losses could reach 55%. Heavy rains have worsened the situation, causing fruit cracking. For peaches and cherries, the reduction in harvest is estimated at 25-30%, and for apples and walnuts, 15-20%.

In parallel, the sugar beet culture was affected over an area of more than 6900 hectares, according to the proof documents. Farmers were forced to replant over 6800 hectares.

At the same time, the cultivation of sugar beets was impacted on a surface of more than 6900 hectares, as shown by the supporting documents. Farmers were compelled to reseed over 6800 hectares.

Regarding orchards, the authorities are analyzing a set of measures, in collaboration with representatives of the fruit growing sector. These include compensating for losses, prioritizing farmers with confirmed damages, and identifying funding sources to cover the damages.

The Ministry mentions that, although the rains in May have contributed to the partial regeneration of trees, the compromised harvest from the frost in April cannot be recovered. The final information regarding damages will be communicated after the validation of all data from the field, authorities specify.