The latest export figures released by Moldova’s National Office of Vine and Wine (ONVV) reveal a wine industry navigating a challenging international environment while continuing its transition toward higher-value products.
During the first five months of 2026, Moldova exported 45.7 million liters of wine and related products worth USD 85.0 million. Compared to the same period in 2025, export volumes declined by 18%, while export value fell by only 4%.
The gap between volume and value performance tells an important story. Although fewer liters reached international markets, Moldovan producers managed to preserve much of their revenue through stronger pricing and an increased focus on premium products.
Premiumization Continues to Shape Export Strategy
One of the most significant developments in recent years has been the industry's gradual move away from dependence on bulk wine exports. The 2026 data suggests this trend is continuing.
Still wines, which remain the largest export category, recorded a 20% decrease in volume and a 10% decline in value. However, bottled wines achieved higher average prices, while bulk wine exports experienced a notable increase in average export price despite lower quantities.
This indicates that wineries are successfully positioning their products in higher-value market segments, allowing them to offset part of the volume decline.
Divin Emerges as a Growth Engine
Among all export categories, Moldovan divin demonstrated the strongest performance.
Exports of divin and brandy products increased by 41% in value and 21% in volume, generating USD 26.2 million in revenue. Particularly impressive was the growth of bottled divin exports, which more than doubled compared to the previous year.
The results suggest growing international recognition for Moldova’s traditional grape-based spirits and highlight the category's increasing contribution to the country's beverage exports.
Liqueur Wines Gain Momentum
Liqueur wines also delivered strong results, with export value increasing by 46% and volume growing by 34%.
Growth was driven primarily by bottled products, which significantly outperformed bulk shipments. This confirms that consumers in export markets are increasingly willing to pay for packaged, branded products that offer higher perceived value.
Challenges in Sparkling and Aromatized Wines
Not all categories performed positively.
Sparkling wine exports recorded substantial declines in both value and volume despite higher average prices. Aromatized wines and vermouth experienced an even sharper contraction, suggesting structural market challenges and increased competition in these segments.
The performance highlights the importance of adapting product portfolios to changing consumer preferences and identifying new opportunities in international markets.
Romania Remains Moldova’s Leading Export Destination
Romania continues to serve as Moldova’s most important export market, accounting for nearly one-quarter of total export volume and almost one-third of export value.
Other significant destinations include Poland, Czechia, the United States, the Netherlands, Nigeria, Canada, Ukraine, Ghana, and China.
While these markets provide stability and scale, the concentration of exports in a limited number of countries underscores the need for further diversification.
Looking Ahead
The first months of 2026 illustrate a wine industry in transition. Lower volumes reflect difficult market conditions, but stable revenues demonstrate the growing effectiveness of Moldova’s premiumization strategy.
Continued investment in branded wines, bottled products, premium spirits, and new export destinations could strengthen Moldova’s competitiveness and reduce vulnerability to fluctuations in individual markets.
For producers, exporters, and investors, the message is clear: value creation is becoming increasingly important as the foundation for long-term growth.
Source: ONVV/Wine of Moldova
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