USAID supports diversification of Moldovan wine export markets through grants and training

Chisinau, July 20. /MOLDPRES/- About 40 representatives of wineries from the Republic of Moldova participated today in the launch event of the Grant Program for promotion of Moldovan wine export of the USAID Rural Competitiveness and Resilience Activity. The grant program is continuous support for the "10 years of revolution" in the wine industry, with significant achievements in quality, marketing and diversification of export markets.

According to USAID, exports to higher value-added markets were successful with domestic bottled wines, representing 43% of the total volume exported and generating over two-thirds of the total wine export revenues from the Republic of Moldova (70%). These figures demonstrate the continuous commitment of the Moldovan wine industry to produce and promote quality wines at an international level. However, many wine producers and exporters face difficulties in accessing new export markets, including due to limited budgets for marketing activities, lack of strategic planning and implementation of complex marketing and promotion programs.

To support the diversification of export markets, the grant program will provide a total budget of 13 million lei (650 thousand euros). Moldovan wine exporters can access grants of up to one million lei per company, depending on the business category. It is estimated that approximately 20 wine companies will benefit from non-reimbursable financial support through this program. The deadline is November 30, with subsequent periods for submitting grant applications on July 31; September 29; and November 30, 2023.

"The wines of the Republic of Moldova have experienced a real revolution in recent years, moving from bulk exported wines to quality wines, developing Protected Geographical Indications, local varieties and new styles of wines appreciated with thousands of medals. Now is the time to learn to sell our wines as advantageously as possible and to make wine of Moldova known on as many international markets as possible. With the support of the grant program, we want to be firm in continuing the path on which Wine of Moldova is advancing, to generate new investments in rural businesses, create sources of income for the country's population and create global notoriety for Wine of Moldova", Deputy Prime Minister Vladimir Bolea, Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry said at the event.

The grant program complements the "Wine of Moldova" strategy and marketing plan, implemented by the National Vine and Wine Office (ONVV), targeting marketing initiatives and activities on the markets of Romania, Poland, Great Britain, Holland, Denmark, South Korea, Japan, Canada, as well as other new markets with potential to increase wine exports. Priority will be given to activities aimed at promoting the premium wine category, with unique and distinct characteristics, especially from local varieties or local selection.

Photo: USAID