Combined with the $2.8 million announced earlier this year, the United States will spend more than $10 million on economic development programs in Moldova in 2014, with a significant focus on private sector competitiveness and agriculture, it is said in a press release of the U.S. Embassy in Moldova, quoted by IPN.
The money will go to increase the international competitiveness of Moldova’s high-value agriculture – especially apples, table grapes, greenhouse produce, peaches, and cherries. The U.S. is also supporting Moldova’s efforts to comply with EU regulations under its recently signed Association Agreement, including the adoption of heightened phytosanitary standards.
The U.S. assistance is helping train Moldovan producers on cold storage technologies for table grapes and apples, enabling them to extend produce shelf life, which is critical for minimizing waste and increasing profits.
The United States has been working in conjunction with the European Union to modernize and diversify Moldova’s agriculture sector for several years. “In contrast with Russia’s approach of shutting its doors, the United States is providing Moldova’s farmers with the tools necessary to compete in global markets, enabling them to take advantage of Moldova’s recently signed Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement with the EU and supporting sustainable economic growth for all Moldovans,” reads the press release.
Since 2011, the United States has facilitated $7.8 million in new post-harvest investments for three high-value agriculture chains. In addition, the five-year, $262 million Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Compact assists Moldovan farmers with the transition to high-value agricultural production, rehabilitates critical irrigation systems and provides access to finance for agribusinesses.
“We believe modernization and diversification of Moldova’s agriculture will continue to bring real benefits to Moldova’s farmers, and we are proud of our support to Moldova’s agricultural producers,” says the press release.
Last week, Russia’s food safety agency announced a ban of fresh and canned fruits and vegetables from Moldova.
