UNEP has helped Moldovan and Armenian organic growers take part in a major organic fair showcasing produce from their countries before over 10,000 visitors.

Buyers from around the world visited the 21st edition of the ‘Natural & Organic Products Europe trade’ in London on 17-18 April, featuring 650 leading exhibitors. The fair allowed representatives from major supermarkets, specialist suppliers, international wholesalers and distributors and independent retail outlets to develop their professional network.

Moldova presented wine, walnuts and marmalade products while Armenia exhibited herbs, fruits and the work of a certifier who provides access to markets including the EU, USA and both public and private labels.

Participating in this kind of event in London is a vital exercise not only for the producers to better understand market trends and consumer demand and harness business opportunities, but also to present Armenia and Moldova as important producers of organic raw material and reliable business partners for processed products.

The organic agricultural sector is growing impressively in both Armenia and Moldova. In 2013, the total area devoted to organic agriculture in Armenia was 10,000 hectares – representing a six-fold growth since 2006. In Moldova, 51,681 hectares were cultivated for organic production, which represents a six-fold increase since 2003. This not only offers opportunities for both countries to export and boost their domestic organic markets, but also helps reverse environmental degradation and preserve natural capital.

Food grown and produced in the two countries was presented at the trade fair thanks to the EaP GREEN Programme, an EU-funded initiative aimed at greening the economies of Eastern Partnership countries.

Under EaP-Green’s organic component, UNEP provides support to countries to enhance their knowledge of domestic and international market opportunities and barriers and builds capacities for the production and trade of organic products.

For more information on EaP-Green’s organic component please click here or read more about the project by clicking here. For further details please write to claudia.assmann@unep.org