Moldova’s walnut exports exceed 40 million dollars annually

The Republic of Moldova maintains its position among the world’s leading walnut exporters, with annual shipments estimated at over 41 million dollars, authorities announced today during the conference dedicated to the 20th anniversary of the Walnut Growers Association of the Republic of Moldova.

The event, held under the theme “ANRM: Two Decades of History. New Partnerships. New Horizons”, brought together representatives of the agricultural sector and public authorities to discuss development prospects for the walnut industry.

Attending the conference, Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry Ludmila Catlabuga said that the walnut sector continues to be strategic for the country’s agricultural economy.


“The Republic of Moldova annually exports walnuts worth over 40 million dollars, and value-added products, especially shelled walnuts, represent the segment with the greatest development potential,” the minister said.


According to data presented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry, the Republic of Moldova ranks 11th worldwide among walnut exporters and 9th among exporters of walnut kernels.

Authorities note that 86% of Moldovan walnut exports go to the European Union market, with the Republic of Moldova being among the top 5 walnut suppliers for EU member states. The main export markets are Germany, France, Romania and the Netherlands.

Official data show that the Republic of Moldova produces annually approximately 23 thousand tonnes of walnuts in shell, grown on an area estimated at around 18 thousand hectares.

The Ministry of Agriculture announced that the sector will benefit from support under the 2026–2030 Strategic Agricultural Policy Program, which provides for investments in the modernization of plantations, post-harvest infrastructure, irrigation, certification and access to finance. For eligible projects, the estimated maximum funding ceiling will be approximately 7 million lei.