Farmers in Moldova have officially begun sowing industrial hemp, following the recent approval of a legal framework permitting the crop's cultivation. Among the first to take the leap is Ion Sahanovschi, a farmer from the village of Bălăbănești in the Criuleni district.
Sahanovschi has dedicated 8 hectares of his 700-hectare operation to test the agricultural and economic potential of industrial hemp. The harvested material will be sent to a local processing facility, as per the new regulatory requirements.
"It's a start. If we want to know what potential it has, we have to try," Sahanovschi said. For him, the move represents a chance to diversify crop production and explore new income streams.
Obtaining authorization to grow industrial hemp in Moldova requires a contract with a licensed processor and a valid processing certificate. According to Sahanovschi, the entire application process was carried out online.
He is also part of a newly formed association uniting hemp producers and processors, aimed at strengthening collaboration across the sector.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry is urging more farmers to take advantage of the new opportunities offered by the updated legislation. The hope is that industrial hemp could support the development of alternative agricultural sectors, boost rural economies, and lay the foundation for new value chains in Moldova.
Source: madrm.gov.md