Moldova to host world congress of vine and wine for the first time in 2025

For the first time in its history, the Republic of Moldova will host the World Congress of Vine and Wine, a major event for the global wine industry. The 46th edition of the congress is scheduled to take place from June 16 to 20, 2025, at the Palace of the Republic in Chișinău. This marks a significant milestone for Moldova, a country recognized for having the highest vineyard area per capita in the world, with four hectares of vineyards for every 100 people. Moldova’s total vineyard area covers nearly 110,000 hectares.

Moldova ranks among the top 20 wine producers globally and is currently the 14th largest wine exporter. In 2024 alone, Moldova exported 144 million liters of wine, generating over $234 million in revenue. Moldovan wines reach consumers in 73 countries, with half of all exports destined for European markets. Wine production is deeply rooted in Moldovan culture and history, playing a vital role in the national economy.

In recent years, Moldova’s wine sector has experienced notable growth. The country now boasts more than 250 wineries, many of which have invested in modernizing their facilities and developing wine tourism infrastructure. These efforts have attracted visitors from around the world and contributed to Moldova’s growing reputation as a destination for wine enthusiasts.

Moldovan wines have gained international recognition through awards at prestigious competitions. Over the past five years, Moldovan producers have won thousands of medals at global events, helping to establish Moldova as a serious contender in the high-quality wine market. The creation of the National Office of Vine and Wine (ONVV) in 2013 and the launch of the national brand “Wine of Moldova: Unexpectedly Great” have played key roles in promoting Moldovan wines abroad.

Ștefan Iamandi, Director of ONVV, explained that the organization works to unite local producers, support exports, and ensure product quality through strict controls. The ONVV promotes Moldovan wines under a single brand to strengthen their presence in international markets.

The upcoming congress will bring together around 300 experts, researchers, winemakers, oenologists, producers, and policymakers from 51 member countries of the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV). The agenda will focus on scientific discussions about current challenges facing the vine and wine sector and explore practical solutions for the future. Participants will also have opportunities to visit some of Moldova’s most renowned wineries during 13 technical tours. A highlight of the event will be a festive dinner at Cricova, an underground wine city famous for its extensive tunnels and celebrated wines.

The congress is organized by Moldova’s Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry and ONVV in collaboration with OIV. Moldova has been a member of OIV since April 3, 2001, becoming the first country from the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) to join. The OIV celebrates its centenary in 2024, making next year’s congress in Moldova especially significant as it marks the start of a new century for the organization.

Minister Ludmila Catlabuga welcomed participants to Chișinău and emphasized Moldova’s commitment to combining tradition with innovation in viticulture and winemaking. She highlighted that hosting this congress is both an honor and an opportunity for Moldova to showcase its heritage and progress to an international audience.

As preparations continue for this landmark event, Moldova aims to demonstrate not only its winemaking expertise but also its hospitality. Organizers hope that visitors will experience firsthand why Moldovan wines are gaining global attention and why this small country has become an important player on the world wine stage.