Food safety and local competitiveness: challenges and opportunities for producers in Moldova

Abstract

This article examines the impact of food safety regulations on the competitiveness of local producers in the Republic of Moldova, a country heavily reliant on its agricultural sector. With food security remaining a critical issue due to challenges such as limited arable land, drought vulnerability, and dependence on food imports, Moldova’s alignment with national and international standards, including EU directives and Codex Alimentarius, imposes both opportunities and constraints. The study analyzes how compliance with stringent regulations affects small and medium-sized producers, who dominate the agricultural landscape, through increased costs and technological demands. Simultaneously, it explores how adherence to these standards enhances market access and consumer trust, fostering innovation and modernization. Drawing on systemic, institutional, and comprehensive methodological approaches, the article identifies strategies to balance food safety requirements with the need to support local producers’ competitiveness. Recommendations include targeted government support, collaborative initiatives, and improved access to financing to ensure sustainable development in Moldova’s agri-food sector.