IFC, a member of the World Bank Group in cooperation with EBA Moldova, are launching a new initiative to help Moldovan food producers enhance their food safety management practices, develop the country's food processing industry, and open doors to new export markets.
On Thursday, March 27th EBA Moldova in cooperation with IFC brought together over 50 companies, representatives of the State institutions, industry experts, food producers and retailers to a workshop in Chisinau, the first educational event on modern food safety management systems in the country. The workshop emphasized the importance of good food safety regulations, presented current and emerging trends on food safety, and discussed the issue of third party certification for producers.
"Agriculture is a key sector for the Moldovan economy. Food-processing accounts for about two-thirds of our exports," said Sergiu Ghetiu, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry. "We want to increase exports and open new markets for our producers. We hope that with IFC's help we shall learn from the experiences of our local neighbors and colleagues around the world."
Moldova is aspiring to open its agribusiness sector to European Union markets. Over the last period EBA Moldova jointly with IFC have organised several events dedicated to DCFTA implementation and raising awareness in the RM. In this regard EBA has launched Agro Committee, Energy Committee, TaxaAdimn Committee to address those very issues faced by the companies on foreign trade. IFC also helps client companies to implement HACCP, an internationally recognized food safety management system, and works with governments and industry experts to build local capacity through training programs and workshops.