Igor Kharchenko Cheese Workshop

Peace dividends often begin with opportunity: an entrepreneur investing in growth, reaching new markets, and building new economic connections. On the Left Bank of the Dniester/Nistru River, Republic of Moldova, what started as a family experiment in artisan cheese-making has grown into Igor Kharchenko Cheese Workshop, a business producing more than 20 varieties of natural cheese. Through the Peace Dividend Initiative (PDI) Moldova SME Acceleration Programme, supported by the Swiss Cooperation in Moldova, the business has expanded its production capacity through the acquisition of new equipment, enabling a significant increase in output and creating new opportunities for growth. As production increases, Igor is exploring opportunities to reach customers on the Right Bank, starting with Chișinău. By opening new markets and strengthening commercial links across the Dniester/Nistru, businesses like his help create practical connections that benefit communities on both banks.