Moldovan President Maia Sandu officially opened the 46th World Vine and Wine Congress in Chisinau
The event is taking place in the Moldovan capital city from June 16 to 20, with more than 300 experts, producers, researchers, and officials from 50 countries participating. In her speech, the Moldovan head of state spoke about the important role of vineyards and wine in the history, economy, and identity of the Moldovan people. "In Moldova, wine is not just an agricultural product; vineyards and wine tell our centuries-old story. The grapevine carries the history of our traditions, the bonds of our nation, and our quiet but steadfast resistance," emphasized the Moldovan President. She also noted the transformation of the Moldovan wine sector over the past two decades, the revival of local varieties, and the contribution of the wine sector to the development of tourism. "The fact that Moldova is hosting the World Vine and Wine Congress this year is recognition of the path taken by our small and large producers, the carefully preserved traditions and the bold innovations they have introduced. It is also a sign of respect for a sector that has withstood empires, bans, embargoes, and crises, becoming stronger each time," said Maia Sandu. The Congress is held under the auspices of the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV) and is dedicated to the theme “Charting the Future of Vine and Wine: Embracing Resilience, Elevating Value, Fostering Innovation.” Participants will discuss sustainable development, new consumer trends, technological innovations, and global challenges facing the sector. The event also provides an opportunity to promote Moldova, a wine-producing country with the largest area of vineyards per capita in the world - about 4 hectares per 100 people. More than 80% of locally produced wines are exported, mainly to Romania, Poland, Germany, the Baltic States and Northern Europe, China and South Korea. The wine sector generates about 3% of the national GDP. The OIV is an intergovernmental organization headquartered in Paris that brings together 51 countries and coordinates scientific, technical, and economic activities in the wine sector worldwide. Moldova has been a member of the OIV since 1992. // 16.06.2025 — InfoMarket
