Moldova forecasts strong apricot and apple harvests

Moldova is anticipating significant agricultural output for the upcoming season, specifically regarding apricots and apples. The association Moldova Fruct estimates an apricot harvest of between 15,000 and 17,000 tons, a volume comparable to 2024. This production is expected to meet export standards due to increased investments in frost protection, irrigation, and modern plant protection. Improved post-harvest infrastructure, such as sorting and cooling facilities, and increased international certifications like GlobalG.A.P. are facilitating better access to foreign markets.

Regarding apples, Moldova Fruct forecasts a higher harvest with improved fruit quality, driven by summer rainfall. While total orchard area has decreased due to the removal of older plantations, production is expected to approach the country's potential. This comes as the broader European apple supply is projected to decrease; WAPA forecasts EU production at approximately 9.5 million tons in 2026, down from 11.25 million tons in 2025. Major producers like Poland and France are also expected to see production declines, though increased output from Türkiye and Ukraine may mitigate potential supply shortages in the European market.