The Governor of the National Bank of Moldova (NBM), Ms Anca Dragu, participated the US–Romania Regional Economic Forum, held in Iași. In her speech, the Governor emphasised that the Republic of Moldova is becoming an increasingly attractive investment destination, against the backdrop of an accelerated European integration process and the modernisation of the financial sector.
“For investors, the Republic of Moldova today presents a different reality from that of just a few years ago. European integration has accelerated, the financial system has become stronger and more closely connected to European markets, the payments infrastructure has been transformed, and energy dependence has been significantly reduced. Today, the Republic of Moldova offers investors a more robust and predictable financial environment, underpinned by a banking system predominantly owned by Western capital, a regulatory framework aligned with European Union standards, and a central bank firmly committed to the European integration process,” said the NBM Governor.
The Governor also highlighted progress towards accession to the European Union, including the recent opening of the “Internal Market” and “Competitiveness and Inclusive Growth” negotiation clusters. Progress along this path strengthens confidence in the Moldovan economy, as also reflected in the improved sovereign credit ratings awarded by the international agencies Moody’s, S&P and Fitch.
Ms Anca Dragu also highlighted advances in the modernisation of payments infrastructure, including the Republic of Moldova’s accession to the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA), which generated savings of approximately EUR 16.4 million for individuals and businesses in the first year following operational connection. More than 81% of cross-border euro transfers to and from the Republic of Moldova are processed through this system. In addition, the national instant payment system, MIA, has surpassed 1.1 million users, while the value of transactions processed has exceeded MDL 28.5 billion.
Particular emphasis was placed on Romania’s role as the Republic of Moldova’s main trading partner and investor, as well as on expanding bilateral economic and financial cooperation. Among the most recent developments in this area is the licensing of the new Moldova International Stock Exchange, whose largest shareholder is the Bucharest Stock Exchange. This initiative will facilitate local companies’ access to financing and help connect the Republic of Moldova’s capital market with regional and European financial markets.
In the same context, the Governor highlighted progress in strengthening energy security, as well as investment opportunities in the technology sector. The US–Romania Regional Economic Forum is dedicated to promoting investment, technological innovation, the development of critical infrastructure and the strengthening of defence partnerships on the eastern flank. The event brought together business representatives, entrepreneurs, experts and members of the academic community, providing a platform for dialogue to identify investment opportunities and strengthen regional economic cooperation.
