Character and comparative advantage: Table grapes are a national symbol of the Republic of Moldova, with a centuries-long history of production, and numerous documents speak of the particularly favourable natural conditions for the development of the vine in this part of the world. At the same time, viticulture is an intensive agricultural sector characterized by a high land use coefficient.

Producing areas: In 2023, the total area devoted to wine plantations in the Republic of Moldova amounted to approximately 115 000 ha, out of which nearly 49 000 ha are situated within private households. Vines for table grape production cover more than 17 000 ha. Most of the table grape cultivation – approximately two-thirds of the total area – occurs in households. The production of table grapes is concentrated in the south and central regions of the country, which account for more than 90 percent of the total surface used for table grape production in the country. Thousands of small-scale producers are actively participating in grape cultivation.

Demands: The local market represents 20 percent of the demand for table grapes produced in the Republic of Moldova, while 80 percent of the total quantity produced is exported. In general, in 2023, Moldovan table grapes were enjoyed by consumers from 36 countries, including France, Luxembourg, Sweden, Netherlands (Kingdom of the), Slovakia, Poland, Türkiye, United States of America, Georgia, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Oman and Iraq. 

Consumption: Table grapes are consumed fresh, directly after harvesting or storage.

Beneficiaries: Small and medium-sized producers of table grapes are the primary beneficiaries, though they encounter challenges in achieving consistent grape production for export to both traditional and emerging markets in the European Union and globally. There is a pressing need to enhance technical skills, strengthen post-harvest handling and bolster marketing strategies for grapes. The cultivation of table grapes by small and medium-sized producers holds significant economic and social value, contributing to the development of rural areas. Efforts to boost the economic efficiency of table grape production will employ various established methods. These include enhancing productivity, improving grape quality and safety, reducing production costs, securing favourable pricing strategies, and implementing targeted promotional campaigns in key markets. Emphasis will be placed on highlighting the unique nutritional, therapeutic and dietary attributes of Moldovan grapes and on natural cultivation practices that minimize the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers, underscoring their organic nature.