Moldova exported 9,700 tons of apples worth just over US$8 million in May 2026, according to data from the Association Moldova Fruct, citing the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry (MAIA). The average export price was US$0.82 per kilogram.
Export volumes declined slightly from 10,200 tons in April and 10,800 tons in March, continuing the expected seasonal slowdown. Russia remained the largest destination, importing almost 5,900 tons worth US$5.2 million at an average price of US$0.88/kg. Romania imported 3,300 tons valued at US$2.3 million, with an average price of US$0.71/kg, while Belarus purchased 245 tons worth US$248,000 at US$1.00/kg.
In total, Moldova exported apples to 11 countries during May, including destinations ranging from Iceland to Kazakhstan and Saudi Arabia. Apart from the three main markets, export volumes to other destinations remained limited.
During spring 2025, Moldova exported around 40,000 tons of apples, with monthly shipments ranging from 19,000 tons in March to 8,000 tons in May. By comparison, exports during spring 2026 have been more consistent from month to month.
The only potential disruption highlighted by the sector has been the conflict in Iran, which could affect logistics for shipments to Middle Eastern markets.
Stable export volumes have coincided with stable wholesale purchase prices for fresh market apples, which remained at 10-12 lei/kg (US$0.58-0.70/kg), depending on variety and quality. Market participants reported only a temporary increase in demand following reports of frost damage to the upcoming apple crop in Poland.
According to Moldova Fruct, between 10,000 and 20,000 tons of 2025-crop apples remained in storage at the start of summer. With at least one month remaining in the marketing season, the domestic and export fresh markets are expected to absorb these volumes. However, market analysts note that apple stocks across the European Union remain above last year’s levels despite lower inventories in some countries.
The industrial apple segment remained largely inactive throughout the spring. Most apple concentrate producers suspended operations in May to prepare for the upcoming processing season. Industry representatives indicated that deliveries of apples destined for processing are expected to resume in June and July when factories restart operations.
The fruit and vegetable processing sector may also change, with one of the country’s three largest processors reportedly planning to acquire the Natur Bravo facility in Kupčinj before the start of the new processing season.
Source: Logos Press