Visiting Chisinau on Monday 6 and Tuesday 7 November, European Trade Commissioner Cecilia Malmström is expected to assess progress, along with the Moldovan government, in EU-Moldova trade relations, three years on from the free trade area that was established in 2014.
Despite the financial crisis of 2014-2015, Moldovan exports to the EU have increased by over 15% since the provisional entry into force of the free trade area in September 2104, registering a 7.7% rise in 2016 compared with 2015, according to the Commission.
Some Moldovan sectors are showing very solid results – like that of fruit juice, and conserved fruit and vegetables, where exports to the EU have increased by 25%. Exports in Moldovan wine to the EU have almost doubled (+96%) since September 2014.
The EU is now Moldova's main trade partner, accounting for two thirds of its exports and nearly half its imports. The improvement in the country's financial situation has enabled EU exports to Moldova to stabilise.
Moldovan SMEs can now benefit from the SME support mechanism that was set up by the Commission to help small companies in Moldova comply with EU standards and take advantage of the free trade area.
During her visit, Malmström is expected to meet Moldova's President Igor Dodon, Prime Minister Pavel Filip, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for the Economy Octavian Calmîc, and Andrian Candu, President of the Moldovan Parliament. She is also expected to meet members of the European Business Association, as well as representatives of civil society.
Malmström is furthermore due to visit Monicol, a company that exports fruits and nuts and which illustrates the success of the EU-Modova free trade area. Since 2014, Monicol has exported 95% of its total production to the EU duty free, and now employs 160 permanent staff. In order to comply with international standards, the company has invested in infrastructure and modern equipment, and has also sought accreditation from leading standards bodies, the Commission states. (Original version in French by Emmanuel Hagry)