How AI sorting technology is securing Moldova’s plum export quality
To secure access to the European Union market, Moldovan farmers are making significant investments in modern technologies. The Bîtlan family, operating a Moldova plum export business from the Criuleni district, has taken a decisive step by purchasing a sorting line equipped with AI sorting technology.
Plums from their orchards are now checked down to the millimeter to meet strict EU market standards before reaching European supermarket shelves.
The Bîtlan family invested $1.4 million (€1.2 million) in the AI sorting technology, which optically scans, calibrates, and assesses the fruit in milliseconds. This is the same advanced AgriTech used in major plum-producing countries like Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany.
Ștefan Bîtlan, the father and founder of the family business, says the idea stemmed from the desire for complete production chain quality control.
"The idea came to me to manage our own production—to be the producers, transporters, and exporters. This is a family operation—my wife is involved, as is our daughter, who is an accountant, and our son Ștefan handles transport and logistics," the farmer stated.
His son, also Ștefan Bîtlan, explains the AI sorting technology's operation.
"We decided to acquire this AI-based sorting line because it sorts plums accurately by diameter and any defects. Plums with a 0–30 caliber are diverted to containers for processing; 30–38 calibers go into punnets, and 38-plus calibers—the premium fruit—go directly to supermarkets requiring large sizes," he specified.
In 2024, Moldova plum export to the European Union reached approximately 8,000 tonnes, alongside 2,300 tonnes of grapes. According to Ștefan Bîtlan, adopting new AgriTech is no longer a choice but a necessity for the sector.
"If we don't adapt to technologies like this, we risk losing the market we have coveted for the last 10 years—the European Union market. I urge other producers to form associations, to find ways to collaborate," the farmer emphasized.
Modern technologies reduce costs and increase agricultural performance. Without financial support programs—such as government or EU subsidies—many sector businesses would not be able to overcome the high technological barriers and strict EU market standards.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
