Ten fruit companies more efficient after fruit export training and $10,000 grants

Chisinau, Dec. 13 /MOLDPRES/- Marketing specialists from ten companies have completed the second edition of the export mentoring program for Moldovan fruit exporters. The specialists presented their marketing, promotion and export plans developed with the support of two mentors from the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

The program has provided businesses with thematic trainings and individual and group assistance over the past eight months, and was organized by Moldova Fruct Association with the support of USAID's Rural Competitiveness and Resilience Activity and Ukraine-Moldova American Enterprise Fund (UMAEF).

"We are glad the Association's team was able to implement this extensive program aimed at providing young specialists with knowledge, practices and tools for exploiting markets and initiating export activities in European markets, including on trade issues, competitor analysis and assessment of existing opportunities. Thanks to the support provided by the international mentors, the participating companies benefited from guidance in establishing sustainable relationships with importers and analyzing target markets," said Iurie Fală, Executive Director of Moldova Fruct Association.

"The fact that only 10 companies have graduated from this program speaks of their determination. I am sure that the time and expertise of external specialists will turn into impressive export sums. I am glad to know that each one of you has an action plan on how you will use the 10 thousand dollar investment offered by UMAEF so that your business will grow in the necessary direction," pointed out Stella Jemna, Country Representative for Moldova at UMAEF.

Given Moldova's intention and recent successes in transitioning from a simple supplier of raw materials to a professional exporter of consumer-oriented, certified, safe and consumer-oriented packaged goods, it is becoming increasingly important to strengthen its competitiveness on international markets. In order to identify and strategically use our competitive advantages, in-depth market analysis, strategic development plans and carefully planned business adjustments are essential. A coherent, well-thought-out approach that reflects each company's unique strengths and the gradual implementation of development plans have been the main focus of the mentoring program.

In the next period, participating companies will implement their marketing plans. The mentoring program is a service that Moldova Fruct Association offers to its members in order to increase their export capacity and to provide the necessary resources and support to expand the export of their products to international markets.