--- title: "Moldova could close two EU negotiation chapters by March 2027" url: https://moldova1.md/p/88924/moldova-could-close-two-eu-negotiation-chapters-by-march-2027 published: 2026-10-29T13:52:00Z language: en author: "Liubomir Guțu" section: "EU accession" source: moldova1.md --- # Moldova could close two EU negotiation chapters by March 2027 > Moldova is making rapid progress in aligning its social and labor legislation with EU standards. Thanks to these advances, the country could provisionally close two chapters under Clusters II and III by March 2027, said Felicia Bechtold, State Secretary at the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection. ![](https://storage.moldova1.md/images/b87c917a-f021-4db2-bc1e-95ffa341787e.jpg) Moldova is making rapid progress in aligning its social and labor legislation with EU standards. Thanks to these advances, the country could provisionally close two chapters under Clusters II and III by March 2027, said Felicia Bechtold, State Secretary at the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection. ![](https://storage.moldova1.md/images/dbb58685-ce72-4b10-91be-90749a459d90.jpg) The Republic of Moldova is awaiting an assessment from its European partners regarding several laws adopted in the social and labor sectors—laws included in Clusters II and III, which were opened in October—the State Secretary announced during the closing conference for the "Support for Labor Market Reform" project, held on October 29. "Our priority is the transposition and implementation of the *acquis communautaire*, and I am pleased to say that we are at a very good stage to provisionally close two chapters. I am coordinating Chapter 2—'Freedom of movement for workers'—within Cluster II; furthermore, we have made good progress on Chapter 19—'Social policy and employment.' We aim to complete the transposition of legislation by March, at which point we will submit our report to the European Commission for the coming year. Therefore, the deadline is March 31," stated Felicia Bechtold. In advance of the formal reporting procedures, the Government and Parliament have already adopted several draft laws and resolutions that are now awaiting review and expert assessment by the European Commission. "We are awaiting their feedback, after which we will have the green light to grant final approval," the State Secretary added. **Cluster II – Internal market: Labour, recognition of diplomas, and trade** This cluster comprises nine negotiating chapters and aims to prepare the Republic of Moldova for full integration and participation in the EU internal market, based on common rules and standards. The Republic of Moldova will commit to aligning its national legislation and standards with EU standards in areas such as product safety; the free movement of workers, goods, services, and capital; consumer protection; competition; financial services; and public health. ***Benefits for citizens and companies:*** - increased employment and business opportunities within EU member states; - recognition of professional qualifications, in accordance with the conditions set out by European regulations; - protection of social rights, including pension rights for individuals who work in multiple countries; - safer products and enhanced consumer protection; - more secure banking and financial services; - access for Moldovan companies to a market of over 450 million consumers, more predictable rules, and greater investment opportunities. **Cluster III – Competitiveness and inclusive growth: Digitalisation, research, and taxation** Cluster III encompasses eight negotiating chapters and focuses on developing a more competitive economy—one that creates better-paying jobs and improves the standard of living for citizens. It covers areas such as digital transformation, taxation, economic and monetary policy, employment, industry, research, education, culture, and customs. ***Benefits for citizens and entrepreneurs:*** - more employment opportunities and better working conditions; - stronger social protection and respect for workers' rights; - quality education and more opportunities for skills development; - more efficient digital public services and a safer online environment; - greater support for small and medium-sized enterprises, investment, and innovation; - modernization of industry and the development of research; - more efficient customs procedures, which will facilitate trade with EU member states. *** The EU accession process comprises 33 negotiating chapters, grouped into six clusters. The Republic of Moldova has opened four of these: Cluster I – "Fundamental Values" (June 15), Cluster VI – "External Relations" (July 14), Cluster II – "Internal Market," and Cluster III – "Competitiveness and Inclusive Growth" (both on October 13). Together, these encompass 24 of the 33 negotiating chapters. The remaining clusters yet to be opened are Cluster IV – "Green Agenda and Sustainable Connectivity" and Cluster V – "Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Cohesion." The negotiation phase is the process through which the Republic of Moldova undertakes reform commitments, demonstrating progress in aligning its national legislation with the European Union's. In other words, this stage outlines the measures and timelines the Government commits to in order to prepare its legislation and institutions for EU membership, while also identifying areas that require more time for adjustment. Consequently, through these committed reforms, the Republic of Moldova is preparing its economy and institutions for participation in the European market, with the goal of ensuring that its citizens and companies enjoy the same rights and opportunities as those in other EU member states. The authorities’ plan is for the Republic of Moldova to join the EU by 2030.