PSRM pushes for local product quotas; authorities reject 50% requirement for supermarkets
Deputies from the Socialist Party have introduced a legislative initiative requiring retail chains to dedicate at least half of their shelf space to local products. These items would be promoted under a special label reading "Local Product - Made in Moldova." However, the authorities do not support mandatory quotas for supermarkets, stating that such limitations are ineffective.
The chairman of the Socialist Party of the Republic of Moldova (PSRM) faction, Igor Dodon, announced that an initiative has been registered to support local producers. This initiative also aims to develop a state strategy for internal trade and to create a program to stimulate and promote local products.
In a separate draft law, PSRM deputies are proposing to introduce a 25% profit tax on companies that supply and distribute electricity and natural gas in the Republic of Moldova from 2025 to 2027. Currently, these companies are taxed at the standard rate of 12%.
“The goal is to increase state budget revenues, as energy companies have gained significant profits due to rising tariffs and the budgetary compensations provided to the population,” Dodon explained.
He stated that the additional revenues would be used to ensure financial sustainability and to provide social support.
During the December 1 edition of the show "La 360 de grade" on Radio Moldova, the Minister of Economic Development and Digitalization, Eugen Osmochescu, rejected the idea of mandatory quotas, such as a "50% local products" requirement in supermarkets.
“It is not correct. It is not a principle of a market economy and does not align with international regulations and best practices,” the minister stated.
He suggested instead focusing on marketing solutions and providing clear consumer information: “We can explore other options. We can implement shelf marketing programs that identify and promote products from the Republic of Moldova alongside those from other countries to encourage local consumption. However, legal limitations are not feasible.”
Additionally, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry (MAIA) launched the “Buy Good Local Products” campaign at the beginning of December.
During the “Bună dimineața” program on Moldova 1, Vasile Șarban, the State Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, emphasized that the consumption habits of each citizen can directly affect the future of agriculture and rural communities in our country. Every local product purchased contributes resources to the national economy through jobs, investment, and rural development.
The President of the country, Maia Sandu, Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu, and other officials urged citizens to support local producers by buying local products, both for the upcoming holiday meal and for daily consumption.
