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Economy
23 October, 2025 / 18:31
/ 5 hours ago

Moldova's agriculture enters new stage of modernization through digitalization, innovation, institutional reforms

In recent years, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry (MAIA) has undergone a profound transformation towards digitalizing processes and strengthening institutions, aligning the sector with European Union standards and global trends of sustainable development. Acting Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry Ludmila Catlabuga made the statement today. She presented the activity report of the sector she manages.

According to the official, the institution has achieved several milestones regarding the digitalization and institutional reform of the agricultural sector, highlighting concrete steps taken to modernize the administration of agriculture and create an efficient system based on innovation, technology, and services for farmers.

One of the most significant reported progress is the creation of the regulatory framework for the development and functioning of agricultural information resources, which will ensure traceability, efficiency, and transparency in managing agricultural resources.

The information systems being implemented include the agricultural accounting information collection network (RICA) – an economic analysis tool for evaluating farm performance; the Farmer's Registry – a national database of all subsidy and support project beneficiaries; Moldova LEADER IT Soft – a system dedicated to monitoring and managing rural development projects through LAGs; the Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation System (AKIS) – a platform intended to connect research, education, and agricultural production; the land cadastre – a modern tool for recording agricultural land; the agricultural equipment registry – a digital system for registering and tracking equipment in the sector; BeeProtect – a platform for monitoring beekeeping activities and protecting bees; E-ANSA – an information system intended for food safety and veterinary control.

"Through digitalization, we aim not only for clearer records but also for data-driven agricultural governance that allows for effective public policies and support tailored to the real needs of farmers," Ludmila Catlabuga emphasized.

The report also presents a comprehensive structural reform of the institutions subordinate to MAIA, intended to strengthen the support infrastructure for farmers and accelerate the transfer of knowledge and innovations to rural areas.

Thus, the National Agency for Land Improvements has been created, the first state institution responsible for implementing policies on sustainable management and use of agricultural land; the Agricultural and Rural Advisory Center, dedicated to providing technical assistance and advice for farmers; the National Center for Seed Research and Production, focused on applied research and innovation in field crops; the National Institute for Applied Research in Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, which integrates research, development, and technology transfer.

Additionally, the legislative framework for the operation of Agricultural Chambers has been approved – autonomous information and consultancy centers intended for farmers, including support in accessing European funds.

Another significant step is the development of the Horticultural Office concept, a structure specialized in promoting and increasing the competitiveness of the national horticultural sector.

The acting minister emphasized that these measures are pillars of a high-performing agricultural system, grounded in science, innovation, and digitalization.

"Modernizing agriculture cannot be done without a solid institutional infrastructure and without digital tools that connect research, production, and the market. Through these reforms, we lay the foundations for a competitive and sustainable agriculture," declared Ludmila Catlabuga.

By consolidating information systems, reforming institutions, and adopting a modern legislative framework, the Republic of Moldova aligns its agriculture with European standards, preparing the sector for more efficient integration into the European Union's economic and agricultural space.