Poland Study Tour

LEARNING FROM THE COMPETITORS - MOLDOVAN PRODUCERS VISIT POLAND ON STUDY TOUR

The Power of Example

Seeking to offer Moldovan agribusinesses the chance to observe, learn and implement the innovations that their most advanced neighbors have already achieved, USAID/CNFA’s Agribusiness Development Project organized a study tour to Poland, one of the main competitors in the fresh fruits on market targeted by Moldovan High Value Agriculture exporters.

The 10-day study tour offered Moldovan producers an opportunity to learn from successful enterprises, to better understand advantages and cost effectiveness of various new technologies, and ultimately to motivate them to implement such innovative activities.

During October 6-15, 2005, 10 Moldovan fruit and vegetable producers participated in trainings on growing technologies and marketing issues, and visited over 20 Polish companies, including organic farms, input suppliers, packinghouses, warehouses, distribution companies, packing manufacturers, wholesale and retail markets. The participants also attended one of the biggest horticulture exhibitions in the Central and Eastern Europe – Polagra 2005 held in Poznan.

Upon return home, the participants have begun developing new projects, based on the ideas learned in Poland. Thanks to USAID/CNFA’s program in Moldova, these producers will be able to provide examples to other growers in the country, by establishing demo plots on their own farms. The study tour to Poland inspired the participants to establish modern fruit orchards, intensive hazelnut plantations, implement new fruit varieties, invest in packinghouse infrastructure, and set up marketing cooperatives.