From 2,000 birds to EU export ambitions: The story of Moldova's first turkey farm
The Valuta family established the first turkey farm in the Republic of Moldova during the pandemic and now aims to expand by exporting to the European Union market.
After several years of establishing a presence in the local market and earning consumer trust, the Valuta family, along with two family friends, is planning to expand their production and promote turkey meat both within the Republic of Moldova and internationally. Natalia Valuta shared insights about the origins of the business, the challenges faced, and future plans during the “Zi de Zi” show on Radio Moldova.
The idea for the business emerged during the pandemic, when the Valuta family and their friends decided to invest in an underdeveloped area of Moldova.
“During the pandemic, we wanted to grow something of our own that was local and organic,” said Natalia Valuta.
To lay the groundwork for their venture, the entrepreneurs identified a farm in the village of Căbăiești, located in the Călărași district, and began their operations with approximately 2,000 turkeys. Although they started with enthusiasm, the beginning was not without its challenges.
“Raising 2,000 turkeys involved some risk. They are quite complicated birds to raise,” Natalia noted.
She explained that they gradually gained experience and learned to overcome challenges with the support of experts.
“We encountered various obstacles but learned how to raise them correctly alongside veterinarians,” Natalia added.
Currently, the farm raises between 6,000 and 9,000 turkeys annually, with their products being sold in stores throughout Chisinau. One of the significant hurdles, according to Natalia, was not just raising the birds, but also building consumer trust and developing a market.
“Our goal is to grow the market and earn people’s trust,” she said.
The Valuta family believes that their strong market presence is due to their commitment to product quality.
“We manage to produce a high-quality, organic product. We are moving forward,” Natalia declared.
According to her, there is a growing interest among consumers for turkey meat.
“Yes, I am glad that people already know us and are seeking our products. I take pride in that,” she said.
Although the business brings them satisfaction, the profits have not yet reached the desired level. Behind their results is immense hard work, sacrifices, and direct involvement in the daily operations of the farm and slaughterhouse, which employs a total of 18 people.
“There is still work ahead when it comes to profit, but there is satisfaction. I am happy when customers ask for our products. They like our meat,” she stated.
Looking back, Natalia Valuta admits she does not regret her decision to invest in this business.
“Now I can say yes; initially, I wasn't sure,” she said when asked about whether it was worth starting the venture.
Currently, the family is exploring the possibility of exporting turkey meat to the European Union market. Although this plan is still being developed, the entrepreneurs emphasize that they do not intend to stop there and plan to increase their workforce to meet anticipated foreign demand.
“We are not going to stop here; we even have plans to expand beyond our country's borders,” Natalia Valuta emphasized.
The entrepreneur promotes turkey meat as a healthy and safe product for consumers.
“It is primarily dietary and healthy. We can consume it without fear, as it is free of antibiotics and growth hormones,” Natalia concluded.
You can listen to the full interview broadcast on the “Zi de Zi” show on Radio Moldova below.
Author: Natalia Mogîldea
