Moldova postpones gas purchases: Junghietu says it is not the right time for long-term contracts
Purchases for the 2026–2027 gas year could be postponed, with actual procurement depending on market developments. Authorities cite high volatility in current international market prices as the reason for the decision.
“Energocom has the task of finalizing the gas procurement strategy by March 31, 2026, but given the current situation and prices on the stock exchange, it is not justified to start purchases in the near future. We will have clarity in April on how these purchases will be carried out,” said Energy Minister Dorin Junghietu after the government meeting on March 26.
The postponement of purchases comes amid significant fluctuations in gas prices.
“Yesterday, the benchmark price dropped, and today it started rising again. This is a volatile situation, and the situation in the Persian Gulf remains uncertain. At the moment, it is more of a time for speculation, not for long term purchases,” Junghietu explained.
According to the official, authorities aim to diversify supply sources and place greater emphasis on bilateral contracts to reduce dependence on market fluctuations and ensure more predictable pricing.
Authorities say they will continue monitoring market developments and decide on the right moment to begin gas purchases to avoid excessive costs for consumers.
At present, consumers in the Republic of Moldova pay 14.42 lei (including VAT) per cubic meter of natural gas.
