Moldova, a small landlocked country in Eastern Europe, has a dynamic trade environment that includes various tariff and import duty regulations for goods coming into the country. The government of Moldova adheres to a mix of general tariff rates and special import duties that apply depending on product categories and the countries from which the goods are imported. This structure ensures that trade is regulated in a way that supports Moldova’s economic development, protects domestic industries, and complies with international trade agreements.
Moldova is a member of several international trade organizations, including the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the European Union’s Eastern Partnership. As part of these relationships, Moldova has signed agreements with the EU, which affects its customs and tariff practices, particularly concerning preferential rates for certain goods from the EU. Additionally, Moldova has established its own customs duties for non-EU imports.
Customs Tariff Rates for Products Imported to Moldova
The Moldovan customs system operates under the guidelines established by the Customs Service of the Republic of Moldova, which is governed by a range of regulations. Import tariffs are typically set according to the Harmonized System (HS) Code, which classifies products in an international system.
1. Agricultural Products
Agricultural goods make up a significant portion of Moldova’s imports, including products such as cereals, fruits, vegetables, and animal products. Tariff rates for these items can vary based on the specific product and the origin country.
Key Tariff Categories for Agricultural Products
- Cereals (HS Codes 1001-1008)
- Wheat: 0% (EU preferential tariff)
- Rice: 15% (Most favored nation tariff)
- Maize: 10%
- Fruits (HS Codes 0801-0810)
- Apples, Pears, and Citrus Fruits: 5-10% (depending on origin)
- Bananas: 15% (Most favored nation tariff)
- Exotic Fruits (e.g., mango, pineapple): 10-15%
- Vegetables (HS Codes 0701-0709)
- Tomatoes: 10% (EU preferential tariff)
- Potatoes: 5-10%
- Meat and Animal Products (HS Codes 0201-0209)
- Beef: 15%
- Poultry: 10%
- Pork: 10%
- Dairy Products: 10-15%
Special Import Duties for Agricultural Products
Moldova applies special tariff rates for agricultural products originating from certain countries under various trade agreements, particularly with the EU and other regional trade blocs. These preferential tariffs apply to countries that have signed trade deals with Moldova, allowing them to import agricultural goods at a lower rate or duty-free.
- EU and Moldova’s Association Agreement
- The agreement offers duty-free access to many agricultural products such as fresh fruit, vegetables, wine, and meat, provided they meet specific standards.
- In return, Moldova also receives preferential access to the European market for certain goods.
- Customs Duties for Non-EU Imports
- For products from countries outside the EU and regional agreements, Moldova generally applies higher duties to protect local agriculture. For example, rice imports from non-EU countries carry a 15% tariff.
2. Manufactured Goods and Industrial Products
Manufactured goods and industrial products also account for a large portion of Moldova’s imports. These goods include machinery, electronics, chemicals, and vehicles.
Key Tariff Categories for Industrial Products
- Machinery and Electrical Equipment (HS Codes 84, 85)
- Electrical Transformers: 10%
- Generators: 5-10%
- Computers and Data Processing Equipment: 5%
- Vehicles (HS Codes 8701-8716)
- Passenger Vehicles: 10-15% (depending on engine size)
- Commercial Vehicles: 15%
- Chemical Products (HS Codes 2801-2926)
- Fertilizers: 5%
- Pharmaceutical Products: 10%
- Plastics and Polymers: 0-10%
Special Import Duties for Manufactured Goods
Certain industrial products imported from specific countries may benefit from preferential treatment due to trade agreements. For example, Moldova’s agreements with the EU allow certain manufactured goods to enter the market at reduced or zero tariffs.
- EU-Moldova Association Agreement
- The agreement facilitates duty-free or reduced tariffs on a wide range of manufactured goods, including machinery, vehicles, and chemicals, subject to certain rules of origin.
- Trade Relations with the CIS Countries
- Products imported from other members of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), such as Russia and Ukraine, may benefit from reduced or exempt tariffs on certain goods like machinery and chemicals.
3. Consumer Goods
Consumer goods, including electronics, clothing, and household appliances, are also subject to customs tariffs when imported into Moldova. These items typically carry higher duties, especially if they are from countries outside of Moldova’s preferential trade agreements.
Key Tariff Categories for Consumer Goods
- Electronics and Electrical Appliances (HS Codes 85, 84)
- Smartphones: 10%
- Laptops and Computers: 10%
- Household Appliances (e.g., refrigerators, washing machines): 15%
- Clothing and Footwear (HS Codes 6101-6117, 6401-6406)
- Garments: 15-20%
- Shoes: 10%
- Household Items and Furniture (HS Codes 9401-9403)
- Furniture: 15%
- Kitchenware: 10%
Special Import Duties for Consumer Goods
- Imports from the EU
- Consumer goods such as clothing, electronics, and household appliances imported from the EU benefit from lower or zero tariffs due to Moldova’s Association Agreement with the European Union.
- Imports from China and Other Non-EU Countries
- China, a major supplier of consumer goods to Moldova, is subject to standard tariffs. For example, smartphones and electronics can attract a 10-15% tariff depending on the specific product.
4. Raw Materials and Energy Products
Moldova is heavily reliant on imports of raw materials and energy products, such as oil, natural gas, coal, and various minerals. These goods are necessary for domestic industries like manufacturing, energy production, and construction.
Key Tariff Categories for Raw Materials and Energy Products
- Crude Oil and Petroleum Products (HS Codes 2709-2713)
- Crude Oil: 0% (duty-free for energy security reasons)
- Refined Petroleum Products: 10%
- Natural Gas (HS Codes 2711-2712)
- Natural Gas: 0% (imported duty-free)
- Metals and Minerals (HS Codes 7201-7408)
- Iron and Steel: 5-10%
- Copper: 5-10%
Special Import Duties for Energy Products
- Imports from Russia and CIS Countries
- Energy products such as natural gas and crude oil imported from Russia and other CIS countries typically benefit from reduced tariffs or duty exemptions due to Moldova’s historical reliance on these sources for energy.
Country Facts
- Official Name: Republic of Moldova
- Capital City: Chișinău
- Three Largest Cities:
- Chișinău (capital)
- Bălți
- Bender
- Per Capita Income: $5,000 (approximate, as of the latest estimates)
- Population: 2.6 million
- Official Language: Romanian
- Currency: Moldovan leu (MDL)
- Location: Eastern Europe, bordered by Romania to the west, Ukraine to the north, east, and south
Geography, Economy, and Major Industries
Geography
Moldova is a landlocked country located in the eastern part of Europe, bordered by Romania to the west and Ukraine to the north, east, and south. The country is characterized by rolling hills, vineyards, and river valleys, notably the Dniester River, which forms a significant portion of its eastern border. Moldova’s climate is temperate continental, with cold winters and warm summers. The fertile soils of the country make it well-suited for agriculture, particularly for growing grapes, vegetables, and cereals.
Economy
Moldova has a developing economy that relies heavily on agriculture, trade, and remittances. It is one of the poorest countries in Europe, with a relatively low GDP per capita. Agriculture accounts for a substantial portion of Moldova’s economy, followed by services, manufacturing, and energy sectors. Despite economic challenges, Moldova’s economy has been showing gradual improvement, especially after signing trade agreements with the European Union.
The country’s major exports include agricultural products like wine, fruits, vegetables, and tobacco, as well as textiles and clothing. Imports mainly consist of energy products, machinery, and consumer goods. Moldova is also an important wine producer, and its wine industry plays a crucial role in the country’s export market.
Major Industries
- Agriculture: Moldova is known for its fertile soil and favorable climate for producing grapes, fruits, vegetables, cereals, and tobacco. The wine industry is particularly important, with Moldovan wines gaining international recognition.
- Manufacturing: The manufacturing sector in Moldova includes food processing, textiles, and machinery. However, it remains underdeveloped compared to other industries.
- Energy: Moldova is highly dependent on imports for its energy needs, particularly natural gas and electricity, most of which come from Russia and Ukraine.
- Services: The services sector, particularly banking and telecommunications, has been growing, with significant investment in infrastructure development.
