Moldova faces 31% tariff on U.S. exports—Here’s the impact
The government will support Moldovan entrepreneurs affected by the new tariffs imposed by the Trump administration on products from the Republic of Moldova.
On April 3, Prime Minister Dorin Recean announced that the measure would impact approximately 2.5% of the country’s foreign trade. At the same time, he expressed confidence in the continuation of Moldova’s strategic partnership with the United States, which has lasted for over 30 years.
“We understand the concerns of our producers, who have worked tirelessly to secure access to the American market. The government will step in to help these entrepreneurs maintain their competitiveness. The Republic of Moldova remains steadfast in its commitment to its strategic partnership with the United States. This partnership has spanned more than 30 years, and we are confident that we will continue aligning our objectives.”
The U.S. decision targets tariffs on imports from approximately 70 countries, including Moldova, as part of an effort to balance American trade. According to the prime minister, these measures will affect around 2.5% of Moldova’s foreign trade.
The official also pointed out that three-quarters of Moldovan exports are directed toward European markets, including the European Union, the United Kingdom, and the countries in the European Free Trade Association (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland).
Against this backdrop, Prime Minister Dorin Recean urged citizens to support the national economy by choosing locally produced goods.
In 2024, the United States was one of Moldova’s key trading partners for both exports and imports. Last year alone, Moldova exported goods worth $90.23 million to the U.S., up from $61.5 million in 2023.
The Republic of Moldova is among the countries targeted by a substantial increase in tariffs on most imported goods, as announced by the United States. According to the published list, Moldova will now face a 31% tariff on exports to the American market.
Economic policy expert Oleg Tofilat told Teleradio-Moldova that the new tariffs imposed by the Trump administration could significantly impact Moldova’s exports, particularly the wine industry—the country’s primary export to the U.S. He also warned that the effect of these measures will not depend solely on the tariff rates but also on how they are applied.
China, the world’s second-largest economy, is subject to a cumulative tariff of 34%, while the European Union will pay 20%, and Japan 24%. Russia is not included in this list.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
