Doing Business with Moldova

Exporting to Moldova involves several steps. Here’s a comprehensive guide:

1. Research Market Requirements

   • Understand Moldova’s import regulations and standards for your product.

2. Identify Local Partners

   • Establish relationships with local distributors or agents.

3. Prepare Export Documentation

   • Include commercial invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin.

4. Arrange Logistics and Shipping

   • Choose a reliable shipping company. Ensure accurate completion of shipping documents, such as bills of lading.

5. Customs Declaration

   • Work with a customs broker to facilitate the clearance process.
   • Submit all required documentation to Moldovan Customs.

6. Understand Duties and Taxes

   • Familiarize yourself with any applicable import duties and taxes.

7. Distribution and Sales

   • Establish distribution channels within Moldova.
   • Consider partnerships with local businesses for effective market penetration.

Key Contacts

• Customs Service of the Republic of Moldova
  • Website: Customs Service of Moldova
• Investment Agency of Moldova
  • Website: Investment Agency of Moldova

Importing goods into Moldova involves several steps. Here’s a comprehensive guide:

1. Register as an Importer

   • Ensure your business is registered with the Moldovan authorities.

2. Classify Your Goods

   • Determine the correct Harmonized System (HS) code for your products to identify applicable duties and taxes.

3. Check Import Regulations

   • Ensure compliance with specific standards and obtain necessary permits or certifications for your goods.

4. Find a Reliable Supplier

   • Establish a relationship with a trustworthy overseas supplier.

5. Arrange Shipping and Logistics

   • Choose a reliable freight forwarder.
   • Ensure all shipping documents are in order, including the bill of lading and commercial invoice.

6. Customs Declaration

   • Work with a customs broker to submit all required documentation to Moldovan Customs.

7. Pay Duties and Taxes

   • Calculate and pay applicable import duties and taxes through the customs system.

8. Receive Your Goods

   • Arrange for the transportation of goods from the port to your warehouse or distribution center.

Key Contacts

• Customs Service of the Republic of Moldova
  • Website: Customs Service of Moldova
• Investment Agency of Moldova
  • Website: Investment Agency of Moldova

Importing goods into Moldova involves several steps. Here’s a comprehensive guide:

1. Register as an Importer

   • Ensure your business is registered with the Moldovan authorities.

2. Classify Your Goods

   • Determine the correct Harmonized System (HS) code for your products to identify applicable duties and taxes.

3. Check Import Regulations

   • Ensure compliance with specific standards and obtain necessary permits or certifications for your goods.

4. Find a Reliable Supplier

   • Establish a relationship with a trustworthy overseas supplier.

5. Arrange Shipping and Logistics

   • Choose a reliable freight forwarder.
   • Ensure all shipping documents are in order, including the bill of lading and commercial invoice.

6. Customs Declaration

   • Work with a customs broker to submit all required documentation to Moldovan Customs.

7. Pay Duties and Taxes

   • Calculate and pay applicable import duties and taxes through the customs system.

8. Receive Your Goods

   • Arrange for the transportation of goods from the port to your warehouse or distribution center.

Key Contacts

• Customs Service of the Republic of Moldova
  • Website: Customs Service of Moldova
• Investment Agency of Moldova
  • Website: Investment Agency of Moldova

Incorporating a company in Moldova involves several steps. Here’s a comprehensive guide:

1. Choose a Business Structure

   • Decide on the legal structure (e.g., LLC, joint-stock company).

2. Reserve a Company Name

   • Ensure the name is unique by checking with the Public Services Agency.

3. Prepare Founding Documents

   • Draft the Articles of Association and other required documents.

4. Register the Company

   • Submit the founding documents to the Public Services Agency.

5. Obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN)

   • Register for taxes with the State Tax Service.

6. Open a Corporate Bank Account

   • Set up a local bank account to handle financial transactions.

7. Register for VAT (if applicable)

   • Apply for VAT registration if your business exceeds the threshold.

8. Acquire Necessary Permits

   • Apply for industry-specific licenses or permits required for your business operations.

Costs

• Registration Fees: Vary depending on the business type.
• Legal Fees: Vary based on legal assistance required.

Key Contacts

• Public Services Agency
  • Website: Public Services Agency
• State Tax Service
  • Website: State Tax Service

Setting up a manufacturing plant in Moldova involves several steps. Here’s a comprehensive guide:

1. Conduct Market Research

   • Analyze demand, competition, and location advantages in Moldova.

2. Choose a Suitable Location

   • Consider available infrastructure, proximity to resources, and zoning regulations.

3. Incorporate Your Company

   • Register your business with the Public Services Agency and obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN).

4. Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses

   • Apply for construction permits and environmental clearances from relevant authorities.

5. Secure Financing

   • Explore options through banks or investment partners.

6. Design and Construct the Facility

   • Hire architects and contractors for design and construction.
   • Ensure compliance with local building codes and safety regulations.

7. Install Equipment and Machinery

   • Purchase and set up machinery necessary for production.
   • Ensure safety and operational standards are met.

8. Hire and Train Workforce

   • Recruit skilled labor and provide necessary training.

9. Set Up Supply Chain and Distribution

   • Establish relationships with suppliers and distributors.

10. Begin Operations

    • Start production and monitor operations for efficiency and quality control.

Key Contacts

• Public Services Agency
  • Website: Public Services Agency
• Investment Agency of Moldova
  • Website: Investment Agency of Moldova

Registering a trademark in Moldova involves several steps. Here’s a comprehensive guide:

1. Conduct a Trademark Search

   • Ensure your trademark is unique by searching the national trademark database.

2. Prepare Your Application

   • Include the trademark design, classification of goods/services, and applicant details.

3. Submit the Application

   • File your application with the State Agency on Intellectual Property (AGEPI).

4. Pay the Application Fee

   • Fees vary based on the type and number of classes. Check AGEPI for current rates.

5. Examination Process

   • The application is examined for compliance and potential conflicts.

6. Publication and Opposition

   • If approved, the trademark is published for opposition. A period is given for third parties to oppose.

7. Registration and Certification

   • If no oppositions arise, the trademark is registered, and you receive a Certificate of Registration.

8. Maintain and Renew the Trademark

   • Trademarks need periodic renewal to maintain protection.

Key Contacts

• State Agency on Intellectual Property (AGEPI)
  • Website: AGEPI

When considering doing business in Moldova, various social, cultural, political, and economic factors must be taken into account.

Social and Cultural Factors

• Language: Romanian is the official language. Russian is also widely spoken.
• Business Etiquette: Building personal relationships and trust is important. Punctuality is valued in meetings.

Political Factors

• Government Structure: Parliamentary republic with a stable political environment.
• Regulations: Moldova is working towards aligning with EU standards.

Economic Factors

• Economic Stability: Developing economy with opportunities for growth in agriculture, manufacturing, and IT.
• Infrastructure: Improving infrastructure, especially in transport and communication.

Foreign Exchange

• Currency: Moldovan Leu (MDL).
• Exchange Rate: Subject to fluctuations; important to monitor for financial planning.

Rule of Law

• Legal Framework: Based on civil law; ongoing reforms to improve business climate.
• Judiciary: Independent but resource-constrained.

Business Environment

• Workforce: Educated workforce with competitive labor costs.
• Trade Agreements: Association Agreement with the EU provides access to European markets.

Key Resources

• Investment Agency of Moldova
  • Website: Investment Agency of Moldova
• Ministry of Economy and Infrastructure
  • Website: Ministry of Economy