Chisinau seeks transition periods in EU negotiations
The Republic of Moldova is requesting more time from the European Union to implement certain European rules following accession, allowing businesses to adapt their operations and ensuring that citizens are not negatively impacted by sudden changes. The areas concerned include tax incentives granted to companies—such as those in the IT sector—support provided to specific economic sectors, and the authorization of medicinal products. In total, 11 requests for transitional periods have been identified within the negotiating positions for two clusters of chapters.
Transition periods would allow the Republic of Moldova to become a member of the European Union without being required to immediately apply all European requirements in certain areas. This does not mean abandoning the rules; rather, it means setting additional timeframes for their implementation, based on the specific difficulties and costs identified.
"A transition period is not an exemption or a derogation from European Union standards or legislation; rather, it is an extension of the time allowed for us to align with these standards. In other words, for areas where we are currently unprepared—whether due to the need for investment, the requirement to prepare economic operators, or the necessity of establishing mechanisms and developing systems—we are requesting a bit more time," explained Rodica Crudu, State Secretary for European Integration, during the program "Paralela 47" on Radio Moldova.
Tax incentives for companies could be temporarily maintained
One of Chisinau’s requests concerns state support provided to certain enterprises. Some businesses currently benefit from preferential tax conditions or other support measures, which will need to be adjusted to comply with European competition and state aid rules.
Furthermore, the authorities aim to avoid the abrupt removal of these advantages, allowing the beneficiaries to reorganize their operations without incurring major economic losses. "For instance, this request covers the Moldova IT Park—specifically the fiscal support for small and medium-sized enterprises and the tax incentives enjoyed by the park’s residents, who, as we know, are significant contributors to the state budget; our intention is to maintain this. Another example concerns support measures for regional development, energy, and innovation," the State Secretary stated.
However, these conditions are not intended to remain in place indefinitely. Once the agreed-upon timeframes expire, the support mechanisms must fully comply with European legislation. The interview did not disclose the specific duration requested for these arrangements.
An additional five years for pharmaceutical authorization
Another sensitive area is the pharmaceutical market. The Republic of Moldova is requesting a five-year period to adapt the procedures for approving medicines for sale. This measure would apply both to products already registered in the country and to those that may enter the market later.
The government points to the risk that an immediate transition to the new requirements could disrupt supply, affecting the availability and cost of medical treatments.
"Our analysis suggests that if we do not allow sufficient time, we could eventually face a shortage of medicines on the market. This would lead to higher demand and increased prices—ultimately having an impact on society and the people themselves," explained Rodica Crudu.
Chisinau's requests for these transition periods are not automatically approved. For each sector, authorities must show why applying European standards immediately would create difficulties and what measures they intend to take to overcome them.
"Any request for a transition period must be accompanied by a substantiating dossier, which begins with a description of the current context, the potential impact should this transition period not be granted, and a very clear roadmap of the steps to be taken before the transition period expires," the State Secretary explained.
Consequently, the duration and terms of these arrangements will depend on negotiations with EU member states, and the Republic of Moldova will be required to provide evidence and a realistic plan for each request.
It should be noted that the Republic of Moldova aims to conclude technical accession negotiations by 2028. The accession process comprises 33 negotiating chapters, organized into six clusters. On October 13, during the fourth EU–Republic of Moldova Intergovernmental Conference in Luxembourg, the Republic of Moldova opened Cluster 2 (Internal Market) and Cluster 3 (Competitiveness and Inclusive Growth).
Previously, the Republic of Moldova opened the first cluster—Fundamental Values—on June 15, followed by Cluster 6 (External Relations) on July 14. The remaining clusters to be opened are Cluster 4 (Green Agenda and Sustainable Connectivity) and Cluster 5 (Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Cohesion).
On October 28, the Republic of Moldova—alongside Ukraine, Montenegro, and Albania—will receive its roadmap for EU accession.
