The import of meat and edible meat offals of the Republic of Moldova

Abstract

The livestock of pigs has decreased significantly in farms specialized in raising pigs in the country, the cause being the coronavirus pandemic. Demand also fell for all pork products requested by both restaurants and picnics. Another cause that contributed to the reduction of the cattle herd was the increase in the price of fodder, as well as energy resources. Domestic meat production does not provide what is needed for processing factories. As a result, pork is imported because supplies are constant, the price is lower than for domestic production, and the quality is good. The Covid-19 pandemic caused an increase in meat processing expenses, as it was necessary to divide the workforce into shifts. The increase in expenses was also caused by the fact that hygiene products and special equipment were purchased for employees, but also for the repeated testing of employees. Imported meat is mostly frozen. This is stored for a long period of time to later be sold at high prices when there is a shortage of raw material on the domestic market. In 2021, compared to 2011, beef was imported more than 4 times, beef – 2,5 times, and poultry - 2 times. The Republic of Moldova imports meat from such countries as: Ukraine, Germany, Russia, Poland, Romania, Hungary. Unfortunately, domestic beef is exported, and Moldovans consume imported meat. Moldovans prefer to eat pork.