Press Release: U.S. and Monicol Ltd. Team up to Launch a Modern Fruit Drying Facility October 31, 2006
Tuesday, October 31, 11:00 AM, Nimoreni Village, Ialoveni Rayon: Farmers in Ialoveni Rayon will soon be able to realize larger profits on the fruit they sell, due to the opening of a newly-renovated fruit drying facility in Nimoreni Village, Ialoveni Rayon. The facility, jointly remodeled by Monicol Ltd., a local agricultural processor and exporter, and the Agribusiness Development Program (ADP) of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), will be officially opened on October 31. USAID, in partnership with ADP, provided investment to renovate the aging factory. Environmental protection systems were part of the package of improvements; these included water purification and sewage systems conforming to European Union standards. In addition, technical assistance and training were provided to improve quality management and food safety procedures. As a direct result of these investments, Monicol is now able to sell its product in the higher-value European Union and world markets. Export sales have gone from $670,000 in 2004 to $1,980,000 in 2005, and sales are projected at up to $3.1 million in 2006. Whereas Monicol purchased fruit from 50 farmers and 1 small-scale processor in 2004, the company is expected to purchase fruit from 365 farmers and 50 small-scale processors this calendar year. Additionally good news is the fact that the company has created 52 full-time jobs, meaning more employment opportunities in the region. In 2004 when Monicol purchased the facility in Nimoreni, it was a bankrupt and dysfunctional Soviet-style processing complex. Through combined investments by Monicol and USAID, the facility was completely renovated to enhance operational efficiency, increase processing capacity, improve product quality, and meet all EU quality and safety standards. Officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry, Ialoveni Local Administration, ADP, Monicol Ltd., members of the press, and community of Nimoreni are invited to attend the opening ceremony on Tuesday, October 31. Media Advisory The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) provides economic and humanitarian assistance in more than 100 countries to provide a better future for all. The Agribusiness Development Project (ADP) is part of USAID's efforts to support private enterprise growth, create jobs and generate income in Moldova. The Agribusiness Development Project is a 5-year program and implemented by CNFA, a US nonprofit organization. Launched in June 2004, ADP provides business consulting services and technical assistance to farmers, local growers and processors to improve the export competitiveness of Moldova's high-value agricultural sector and increase rural incomes and employment opportunities. | 
