Moldova hosts World Congress of Vine and Wine

The Republic of Moldova is hosting for the first time the World Congress of Vine and Wine, the most important international event dedicated to the wine sector. Now in its 46th edition, the Congress brings together experts, researchers, vintners, oenologists, producers, and policymakers from over 50 countries.

Participants in the event will discuss current challenges in the sector and outline global action directions in viticulture, oenology, economics, and health.

The event themed "Shaping the Future of Wine: Embracing Resilience, Increasing Value, Encouraging Innovation" is held under the aegis of the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV). The 2025 Congress officially opens the second century of the OIV after the organization marked 100 years of activity in 2024.

Moldova sends a strong message: a small country with a solid wine-growing identity, capable of supporting an international dialogue on research, innovation, and sustainable policies.

Attending the event's opening, head of state Maia Sandu stated that in Moldova, wine is not just an agricultural product—the vine and wine tell our story through the centuries.


"The vine carries the history of our traditions, of our ethnic connections and a quiet but firm resistance. Today, we carry this story forward and share it with the world by hosting the World Congress of Vine and Wine in Chișinău—an event that brings together specialists from 50 countries and offers Moldova international recognition for a wine sector that has faced empires, bans, embargoes, and crises, becoming stronger each time. Congratulations to all those who contribute daily to this success story," emphasized the head of state.


Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry Ludmila Catlabuga stated that it is an honor and responsibility for the Republic of Moldova to host the Congress of the International Organisation of Vine and Wine, which is a landmark event for the international wine community.


"This moment has a double significance for us. On one hand, it reflects the path of modernization and internationalization of the Moldovan wine sector, and on the other hand, it reaffirms our deep historical connection with the vine, wine, and land. In the Republic of Moldova, wine is not just a product or an export commodity; it is a living expression of the Moldovan soul and our deep identity. Every bottle of wine signifies hospitality and dedication," stated Ludmila Catlabuga.


The minister emphasized that the past few years have been decisive for the wine sector in the Republic of Moldova, marked by investments in quality, traceability, international promotion, and sustainability. The results of these efforts were quick to appear. Thus, the Republic of Moldova became the 14th largest wine exporter in the world, with a commercial presence in over 75 countries. Currently, Moldovan winemakers boast over 7,500 international medals, of which 58 percent are gold.


"We look to the future with confidence, invest in the education of future oenologists, support organic wine, digitalize the value chain, and encourage the integration of young people into the field. We want Moldovan wine to increasingly find its place on European, Asian, American tables, and especially in the heart of the global consumer," mentioned Ludmila Catlabuga.


President of the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV) Yvette van der Merwe declared that this congress represents an exceptional opportunity to reflect on common progress and face new challenges together.


"The Republic of Moldova, with its rich viticultural history and commitment to innovation, has become a beacon in the global wine community. We come together to discuss the future of our sector and will explore how scientific advancements and sustainable practices can shape the path forward. This congress, held in a country where viticulture is an integral part of the culture, will serve as a platform for dialogue and collaboration, ensuring that the wine industry will continue to thrive in the years to come," said Yvette van der Merwe.


The sessions of the Congress will take place from June 16-20 at the Palace of the Republic. The event will feature over 300 scientific papers, organized into four thematic panels. In addition to the scientific program, the event's agenda includes 13 thematic visits to top wineries in the Republic of Moldova.

In the last ten years, the wine industry in the Republic of Moldova has undergone significant transformation due to innovations, managing at the same time to maintain its traditions. From indigenous grape varieties to internationally awarded wines, Moldova currently ranks 19th in the world as a wine producer, exporting 85% of its production to over 75 countries. With a centuries-old wine-growing tradition, Moldova has become one of the most dynamic wine regions in Europe. Our country holds the highest density of vineyards per capita in the world, being among the top 20 wine producers globally and ranking 14th in exports, with 144 million liters delivered abroad in 2024.

The Republic of Moldova joined the OIV in 2001, actively promoting international standards in the field.