Moldova's Livestock Industry Receives $11 Million Investment Boost with UNIDO support
The livestock industry in Moldova is set for significant growth, with over $11 million in investments aimed at modernizing farms and improving animal welfare, thanks to technical support from an EU-UNIDO Project and collaboration with the World Bank. This funding will help Moldova’s farmers meet European Union standards, enhance their competitiveness, and boost sustainability in the agriculture sector.
Between October and November 2024, more than 50 cattle farm owners, dairy entrepreneurs, and students participated in specialized training on EU environmental regulations and animal welfare standards, including five businesses benefiting from one-to-one coaching sessions and over 20 farms receiving expert assessments in identifying areas for investment and improvement. The hands-on sessions proved especially impactful, as they were delivered directly on working farms, offering hands-on learning and fostering collaboration between seasoned farmers and newcomers. Special emphasis was placed on the integration of new technologies and the evolving guidelines for animal welfare and environmental sustainability.
By the end of 2024, six agricultural enterprises in Moldova had signed grant contracts totaling $11 million. Of this, $5 million is non-reimbursable funding designed to accelerate modernization efforts.
These investments are critical for Moldova’s agricultural development. “The quality of the product starts with the health of the animals,” said Marian Bîtiu, a cattle farm owner in northern Moldova. His farm, Gifis Farm, which raises 180 cattle, will benefit from a grant to fund infrastructure improvements such as a modern ventilation system, upgraded manure cleaning systems, and rubber mats for walking alleys. Additionally, automated systems—including a robotic calf feeder and milking system—will optimize productivity and enhance animal care.
Bîtiu is particularly excited about integrating a high-performance software system with the milking robot, enabling real-time monitoring of herd health. “This unique technology will facilitate disease prevention and improve overall animal well-being”, he said. The farm will also benefit from energy-efficient machinery sourced from the EU, reducing production and processing costs, and a new photovoltaic system to lower carbon emissions.
The training, coaching and expert assessments were provided by the UNIDO project “Improving Standards Compliance through Increased National Capacities for Residue Monitoring” Project, financed by the European Union, while investments were channeled through The Agriculture Governance, Growth and Resilience Investment (AGGRI) Project financed by the World Bank and implemented by the Moldovan Agency for Agriculture Intervention and Payments (AIPA).
Through this initiative and collaboration with the World Bank and AIPA, UNIDO has provided crucial assistance to Moldovan farmers, helping them navigate EU regulations and prepare for the next stage of development. The $11 million investment package will help transform Moldova’s livestock industry, supporting farm modernization, improving animal welfare, and ensuring greater sustainability in the agricultural sector. With tailored training, expert advice, and grant support, Moldova’s farmers are well-positioned to grow their businesses and meet international standards.
For further information, please contact:
Mr. Fabio Russo, Chief and Officer-in-Charge TCS/SME, f.russo [at] unido.org (f[dot]russo[at]unido[dot]org)
Mr. Giorgi Todua, Associate Industrial Development Expert, g.todua [at] unido.org (g[dot]todua[at]unido[dot]org)
