Strengthening food security by developing association and cooperation in agriculture and optimizing the value chain in the Republic of Moldova

The purpose of this research is to examine the relationship between food security and the current level of association and cooperation in agriculture, as well as how the functionality of the value chain influences the competitiveness and sustainability of the agri-food sector in the Republic of Moldova. The main findings show that the low degree of association and cooperation limits the access of agricultural producers to external markets, modern technologies and sources of financing, which affects the competitiveness and quality of products. At the same time, the lack of consolidated value chains reduces the ability to comply with international food safety standards. In contrast, where there are functional cooperatives and partnerships, there is a better integration of production with quality requirements, an increase in farmers' incomes and a direct contribution to food security.