BUILDING MOLDOVA // Agriculture to be based on science and smart solutions

Agriculture in the Republic of Moldova must be based on science, innovation and smart solutions that reduce risks and costs for farmers. Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry Eugeniu Osmochescu made the statement at Building Moldova event, where projects implemented through the Economic Growth Plan of the Republic of Moldova are being presented.

„Intelligence will be at the head of the table,” the official emphasized, noting that 750 projects have been announced in the agricultural sector.


„We want agriculture to be based on science, smart solutions and innovation, contributing to the development of the economy and industry. We are talking about the use of scientific research, modern tools and innovative equipment,” the minister said.


According to the minister, investments in smart agriculture can be recovered within approximately one year, while the application of science- and innovation-based solutions will help reduce costs and risks for producers.

Among the authorities’ priorities are ensuring access to drinking water and irrigation water, developing processing capacities and creating greater added value for agricultural products.


„Of course, agriculture faces a number of challenges. The year 2026 is marked by hydrological problems that affect the country and its economy, as well as the natural environment. The Republic of Moldova has water resources for irrigation in the basins of the Prut and Dniester rivers, but they have gone through a difficult period. At the same time, we have access to approximately 15% of the surface area of lake Cahul, located in the south of the country, most of which lies on the territory of Ukraine. Access to drinking water and irrigation water is a priority for the Republic of Moldova, especially for the agricultural sector. In this regard, we have completely revised our approach to the development of irrigation systems,” Osmochescu added.


Eugeniu Osmochescu pointed out that Moldovan producers continue to export, including to European Union markets, mainly raw materials, without fully taking advantage of the opportunities offered by processing. In this context, the official emphasized the need to develop the entire agri-food chain, from production and post-harvest infrastructure to processing and packaging.

Another priority area is the development of irrigation systems, given the hydrological challenges facing the Republic of Moldova. The minister noted that investments must be made where there is demand from farmers and where water resources can be used efficiently.

In this regard, Osmochescu presented a project implemented with the support of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), whose first phase is worth approximately 63 million euros. The project provides for the rehabilitation of two irrigation stations and access to water for approximately 6,900 hectares of agricultural land, benefiting around 300 farmers.

The minister also highlighted the importance of Moldova Orchard 1 and Moldova Orchard 2 programs. The second project, worth 150 million euros, is expected to generate total investments of approximately 300 million euros in the agri-food sector, contribute to a 30% increase in exports compared with the current level and create at least 1,000 jobs.


„The second pillar is processing. Farmers who have access to irrigation must be able to produce, and agriculture in the Republic of Moldova must also be based on creating added value. Unfortunately, at present we export, including to European Union markets, mainly raw materials, without processing them in a way that would increase their value. That is why we are talking about developing the entire agri-food chain, from production to creating added value. This objective requires investments in post-harvest infrastructure, processing and packaging,” the minister said.


The official described 2026 as a very good year in terms of investment projects in agriculture and emphasized that the development of the sector must be supported by three pillars: smart agriculture; investments in processing and agri-food infrastructure; and consulting and support services for farm development.


„The third pillar is access to markets, especially the European Union market. The Republic of Moldova benefits from the free trade agreement with the EU, and our producers and processors have managed to enter this market, including thanks to the quality of their products. We will continue to develop this sector, focusing on quality and competitiveness,” Osmochescu explained.


According to the minister, agriculture plays an essential role in implementing European standards, while modernizing the sector is indispensable for the successful integration of the Republic of Moldova into the European Union.

„Without these levers, we will not be able to cope,” Eugeniu Osmochescu emphasized, referring to the need for investment, innovation and alignment with European requirements.

Building Moldova event is dedicated to presenting strategic investment projects and the results pursued through the Economic Growth Plan of the Republic of Moldova.

The Republic of Moldova has 912 priority investment projects in areas such as energy, road infrastructure, education, healthcare, irrigation and the digital economy, while the authorities aim to accelerate their implementation through a more effective coordination and monitoring mechanism. Prime Minister Vasile Tofan presented several of the strategic projects today at Building Moldova event, dedicated to investments carried out through the Growth Plan of the Republic of Moldova, supported by the European Union.