Several winegrowers from Cahul created cluster to boost exports to European market

16 grapewine producers from Cahul district have joined forces to create Table Grapes Cluster—an initiative that has opened up opportunities for growth, expansion into foreign markets and access to modern technologies.

Founded in 2021, the cluster emerged out of the need to increase the visibility of Moldovan products on the European market and promote sustainable and quality agriculture.


'The cluster allowed us to unify production technologies. Export conditions have improved, and price negotiations have been more efficient, especially due to increased volumes and product diversification,' cluster manager Sergiu Mihov said.


From East to West: Opening towards European market

Before the pandemic and war, the cluster's exports were mainly directed to CIS countries. With the support of EU4Moldova: Focal Regions programme, funded by the European Union and implemented by UNDP and UNICEF, cluster members managed to diversify products and access new markets.

Today, 40% of Cahul's table grape production reaches consumers' tables in EU member states.


'The CIS market has changed, and we are now focusing on accessing supermarket networks in Romania and other European countries. These efforts will have a significant impact on our exports,' says entrepreneur Petru Mihov.


EU investment for future of Moldovan farmers

With funding of 100,000 euros obtained through the program, the cluster has invested in modern equipment, increasing production capacity and contributing to the creation of new jobs in the region.

Cluster members have benefited from training sessions, study visits and exchanges of experience, including through a collaboration agreement with a cluster in Romania. These initiatives have helped to develop entrepreneurial skills and improve production standards.

In the future, the cluster aims to diversify its product range by investing in local varieties and expanding exports to European markets. This process will involve investments in workforce and the adaptation of sustainable practices to protect environment.