Moldova has experienced a rapid increase in its apple exports to both the European Union (EU) and Central Asian markets during March 2024, EastFruit reported. As per the data provided by the Moldova Fruct Association, the country's apple exports for the month reached nearly 22,000 tons, with a total value of $13.6mn.
This surge marks a considerable uptick from the preceding months, with February 2024 seeing exports of 16,300 tons valued at $10.1mn, and January 2024 recording 14,100 tons worth $7.9mn. Comparing these figures to March 2023, where exports amounted to 19,400 tons valued at $11.7mn, and March 2022, which saw 11,400 tons worth $5.1mn, illustrates the growth trajectory of Moldova's apple export industry.
A key aspect of this growth is Moldova's expansion into Central Asian markets. Specifically, the country has increased its apple exports to nations such as Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan. In March 2024 alone, Moldova shipped over 1,000 tons to Kyrgyzstan, 813 tons to Kazakhstan, and 140 tons to Uzbekistan, demonstrating a diversified export strategy.
Moreover, the recent surge in exports to Romania is noteworthy, with shipments more than doubling from the previous month to 3,600 tons. This surge suggests that Moldovan apples may be filling the gap left by Iranian apples in these markets, indicating potential opportunities for further expansion.
However, it's essential to highlight a slight decline in Moldova's apple exports to Middle Eastern countries during March 2024. Shipments to Saudi Arabia dropped below 1,000 tons for the first time in 2024, indicating shifting dynamics in regional trade patterns.
Looking ahead, representatives from Moldova Fruct estimate that the remaining stock of the 2023 apple harvest stands at approximately 60,000 tons. If the export momentum witnessed in March persists over the next two to three months, it is anticipated that this inventory will be fully distributed across both external and domestic fresh markets, with minimal quantities directed toward industrial processing.
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