Frost destroys sugar beet crops in Moldova, farmers seek aid
More than half of Moldova’s sugar beet crops have been destroyed by a wave of frost, but there are currently no signs of an impending rise in sugar prices, according to the national growers’ association.
Farmers have stated that replanting is already underway, as soil conditions remain favourable and there is still enough time to resow. Despite this, the losses already amount to millions, prompting producers to appeal to the government for urgent support. Their requests include VAT and customs duty exemptions for imported seeds, along with partial compensation for damages through the state’s Intervention Fund.
Over 5,500 hectares of sugar beet—part of the area sown to date—were completely destroyed by frost between April 6 and 13, the Sugar Beet Growers’ Association reported. This organisation represents more than 70 farmers across the country. What makes the situation especially serious is that it comes on the heels of an already difficult year: in 2024, drought conditions slashed harvests to just a third of projected yields, according to association president Alexei Chiriac, in a statement to Radio Moldova.
“In 26 years of growing sugar beet, I’ve never seen anything like this,” said Chiriac. “Still, the current weather conditions allow us to continue. We can sow again until May 1. It’s not too late—everything depends on how the year progresses. I see the deadlines as guidelines—replanting is still an option. Overall, the situation isn’t hopeless. We’re seeing good rainfall, the soil moisture levels are favourable, and current conditions are relatively decent. As long as last year’s scenario doesn’t repeat itself, there’s hope.”
According to Chiriac, losses from seeds alone have surpassed 53 million lei (~€2,500,000), with the total damage expected to run into several hundred million. Many farmers are at risk of bankruptcy. While they are ready to restart planting due to the favourable weather, they say they cannot proceed without government support.
“We’re doing our best,” said one grower. “Processors have stepped in to offer financial assistance for replanting. From the state, we’ve requested help with VAT refunds, compensation, and customs clearance procedures. Whether the costs are external or come from the national budget, we need help covering the expenses tied to this second round of sowing. As for sugar prices, personally, I don’t think they’ll go up.”
The matter has been brought to the attention of Prime Minister Dorin Recean during a government meeting. The scale of the damage and the looming risks for the sugar sector were outlined in detail. Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry Ludmila Catlabuga stated that all proposals from farmers would be reviewed and that the damage assessment process would take up to 30 days.
“However, these figures must be verified with proper documentation,” she added. “We will form joint reception commissions with local authorities and agricultural departments. These will include specialists to ensure clarity and accuracy in damage reporting.”
The sugar beet sector employs more than 3,000 people and contributes over 100 million lei annually to the state budget. It also ensures Moldova’s full domestic sugar supply.
Authorities also noted that, in the first months of the year, the government had already paid out over 1 billion lei in subsidies to farmers, from the total allocation of 1.7 billion for 2025. Through the Budget+Plus programme, the Agency for Intervention and Payments in Agriculture (AIPA) received an additional 200 million lei. The process of VAT reimbursement will also begin gradually.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
