Moldova, Republic of

Imports are subject to VAT: standard rate 20 percent, reduced rate 8 percent (e.g. bread, medicines, certain agricultural products). Import VAT is due during customs clearance. Customs duties also apply (ad valorem 0 to 25 percent); around half of all tariff lines are duty-free.

The Customs Service (Serviciul Vamal) processes declarations electronically via ASYCUDA World. A new Customs Code has applied since 1 January 2024. Declarations must generally be filed at least one hour before arrival at the border, with supporting documents within 72 hours of import.

Yes, indirectly: the only sea access is the Danube free port of Giurgiulesti (GIFP), about 134 km from the Black Sea. It handles river and sea vessel transhipment (draft up to about 7 m) and connects to broad- and standard-gauge rail and road. Main activities are grain export and fuel import.

Moldova has held a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA) with the EU since 2016, is a CEFTA member (since 2006) and part of the CIS Free Trade Area. Preferential origin is proven via EUR.1 or an origin declaration under the PEM Convention. Moldova has been an EU candidate since 2022.

At minimum the original commercial invoice, the transport document (e.g. CMR) and any permissive documents (licences, authorisations depending on the goods) plus the customs declaration are required. For preferential treatment an origin proof must be presented.

Since 1 January 2025, Law No. 213/2024 on the control of trade in strategic goods has applied. It governs the export, re-export, import and transit of strategic goods and requires authorisation for weapons, munitions and dual-use and military goods.

The Transnistria region on the left bank of the Dniester is outside government control. The war in neighbouring Ukraine affects transit routes and energy supply, and Moldova is heavily dependent on energy imports. Low water on the Danube can also temporarily limit transhipment at Giurgiulesti.

This page links to important partner countries (based on import/export partners) for quick context.

• RO
• CN
• RU
• DE
• UA
• IT

For international shipments, these terms are a good quick start:

• Incoterms
• AWB (Air Waybill)
• Bill of Lading (B/L)
• HS Code
• UN/LOCODE