The April frosts caused an estimated €38 million (741 million Moldovan lei) in damages to Moldova's horticulture and table grape sector, according to the Moldova Fruct Association, as reported by Logos Press.
Stone fruit crops were hit the hardest. This year's cherry harvest is expected to be extremely low, while apricots and peaches suffered similar damage, though to a lesser extent. These concerns were raised by the association during a meeting with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry (MAIA). In response, ministry officials pledged to "analyze the situation and take action within the next two weeks."
This damage estimate had been voiced earlier, first cited two weeks ago at a meeting between agricultural producer organizations and Prime Minister Recean, with the MAIA leadership also present. Since then, little has changed in Moldova's fruit-growing sector, and early May frosts have worsened the situation, according to some farmers.
At the latest meeting, Moldova Fruct renewed calls for government support. Their demands include urgent payment of overdue subsidies from 2023 to 2024 and the inclusion of targeted agricultural support measures in Moldova's 2025–2027 Growth Plan Reform Agenda.
Despite the challenges, Moldovan growers remain hopeful for the future of the sector.
Source: logos-pres.md