Moldovan wine exports to Japan nearly quadruple
Moldovan wines are gaining ground in East Asia, with exports to Japan and South Korea rising sharply since 2017 as producers seek to expand their presence in Asian markets.
Japan emerges as a strategic market
Moldovan wine exports to Japan reached €1.3 million (approx. 26.1 million MDL) in 2025, equivalent to $1.5 million, nearly four times the 2017 figure. Exports to South Korea also rose 3.5-fold over the same period, reaching $400,000, Andrian Digolean, State Secretary at the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry, said on Radio Moldova's "Zi de Zi" programme.
A promotional tour across Asian markets began on November 5, showcasing wines from the Republic of Moldova. Wineries are taking part in three major events, starting with the China International Import Expo, followed by the Dijon International Wine Expo, an international wine-tasting competition.
Moldovan winemakers are scheduled to attend the next edition of Japan's Wine Vernissage on November 17.
A dedicated brand representative in Japan
Moldovan authorities see considerable potential in Japan, where a discerning wine market could offer opportunities for lesser-known producers. Digolean said local consumers were increasingly interested in discovering new wines, particularly those made from indigenous grape varieties.
“True wine connoisseurs are looking for something new, and the Republic of Moldova is still an unfamiliar market to them, particularly when it comes to wines made from local varieties such as Viorica, Codrinschii, Fetească Neagră and Fetească Regală, as well as blends combining European and indigenous varieties,” the state secretary said.
Moldova is investing in promoting its image in Japan to strengthen its position in the market. The authorities have appointed a dedicated brand representative to promote Moldovan wines in the country.
“We have a brand representative responsible for promoting Moldovan wines. We would have liked to establish a presence in several countries, but the decision was made in favour of Japan, and we are pleased with the results,” Digolean said.
International awards and medals also play an important role in promoting Moldovan wines. Wineries that receive medals can display them on bottle labels, helping consumers identify award-winning products.
“Wineries that win medals can use stickers on their bottles. This adds value for consumers who understand the significance of these awards. The distinctions give them the confidence to choose that particular bottle from the shelf,” Digolean said.
Exports reach nearly $10 million
In 2025, Moldova exported approximately 3.3 million litres of wine to East Asian and Middle Eastern countries, generating revenue of $9.7 million (approximately €8.6 million).
Currently, 21 companies export Moldovan wine to Japan, six to South Korea and 23 to China.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
RELATED COVERAGE
- From Russia with embargo: How Moldova’s wine reached the world
- Moldova wine exports 20 years after Russia embargo
- Moldova seeks lower customs duties for wines exported to China
- Moldova seeks to cut China trade deficit via agricultural expansion
- Moldova's wine exports have declined, but producers find new markets in Africa
