Entrepreneurs plan 14,000 new jobs in Moldova this year
Entrepreneurs in Moldova are planning to create over 14,000 new jobs this year, with 80% of them expected to be in the private sector.
Digital skills and continuous training are becoming increasingly important, according to a survey of nearly 3,000 businesses conducted for the National Employment Agency (ANOFM).
Last year, the labor shortage was less felt, but the proportion of companies that did not hire increased significantly, from 24.5% in 2022 to 32.9% in 2024. Experts emphasize that as the economy recovers, the labor shortage may become a greater challenge for employers.
Meanwhile, entrepreneurs have reported a 14% workforce deficit, and some have decided to lower their requirements for new employees to address the situation. However, digital skills are becoming more in demand, as economist Iurie Morcotîlo noted when presenting the survey results. According to him, nearly all employers consider basic digital knowledge necessary, including computer operation, internet navigation, and file management. Most businesses also agree that employees need to have and be able to use digital communication skills, such as email, messaging, and video conferencing.
Approximately 56% of business owners stated that there is a need for continuous and additional training in basic internet and email usage. Expectations are rising, but the level of knowledge among most employees is still relatively low. Around 45% of employees indicated that further training is needed in text processing and spreadsheet skills, such as using formulas in Excel and creating certain charts. The smallest proportion of employees stated that they require training in more advanced skills, such as presentation creation or cybersecurity.
In 2024, demand for goods and services increased for the first time after previous economic shocks, according to the conclusions of the survey conducted on a sample of approximately 3,000 businesses, representing 19% of the total. For 2025, investment and job creation plans are more optimistic, though they may be influenced by the ongoing energy crisis.
The survey, conducted last fall before the energy crisis, revealed that companies intend to invest in energy efficiency, noted Sergiu Harea, President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Republic of Moldova. He also mentioned that the government needs to play a more active role in continuous employee training and boosting the workforce.
The findings highlight the need for both government investment in continuous training and workforce development to meet the demands of the labor market. This will lead to a growing need for investment in technology and equipment to improve productivity and, ultimately, the competitiveness of local companies. Unfortunately, as mentioned in the analysis, the past three years have seen stagnation. There has been no growth in GDP, and exports have not increased. Additionally, the agricultural sector is facing a difficult situation due to droughts in the past 3-4 years, which have led to a decrease in agricultural production.
According to the National Employment Agency, over 4,000 individuals have been placed into employment since the beginning of 2025. Last year, more than 16,600 people found jobs with the support of the agency.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
