EU takes new step to remove customs duties on Moldovan fruits, grape juice, tomatoes, and garlic
On Thursday, September 18, the European Union decided to support the removal of customs duties on seven agricultural products from the Republic of Moldova. This decision aims to strengthen bilateral trade relations. The products affected include plums, table grapes, apples, tomatoes, garlic, cherries, and grape juice. Although these items have already been exported to the EU market, they have not yet enjoyed full liberalisation.
The EU Council has adopted the position it will support in the EU-Moldova Association Committee (trade configuration), with a view to fully opening the European market for these products. The measure aims to transition from the temporary liberalization regime, applied unilaterally by the EU since July 2022, to a stable and predictable framework for the economic environment.
“This transition aims to provide clarity and certainty for producers and exporters on both sides, while strengthening trade relations and protecting sensitive agricultural sectors in the EU,” an official statement said.
The future agreement will include strict safeguard clauses to prevent any distortions of the European market. The extended market access will be conditional on the Republic of Moldova's compliance with EU agri-food standards, which it must gradually align with by 2027.
After the adoption of the decision by the Council, the Association Committee will formalize the reduction and elimination of customs duties through a decision based on Article 147(4) of the EU-Moldova Association Agreement, which allows for the review and extension of trade liberalization.
This measure is part of a broader framework of EU support to the Republic of Moldova, in the context of the war in Ukraine and its European path.
The Association Agreement, signed in 2014 and entered into force in 2016, aims to bring the Republic of Moldova closer to European standards and policies, including through the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA).
We remind you that the EU is the main market for Moldovan products. Data from the National Bureau of Statistics show that, between January and July this year, we sold products worth 1.2 million dollars in European Union countries, the community market holding a share of 66.3% in total exports of the Republic of Moldova.
