Moldova’s exports are on the rise at the beginning of the year, driven by external demand and the expansion of shipments to key markets

Exports of goods from the Republic of Moldova recorded an increase in February, being higher by 7.8% compared to January and by 10.5% compared to the same month of the previous year. The main export markets in the first two months were Romania, Turkey, and Italy.

Total value and structure of exports

In the period January–February, total exports reached 550 million euros, marking an increase of 11.6% compared to the previous year. Of this amount, 445 million euros represented domestic products, accounting for approximately 80.9% of the total.

Geographical distribution of exports

Shipments to European Union countries totaled 340 million euros, up 10.6% compared to the same period of the previous year. At the same time, exports to CIS countries exceeded 34 million euros, recording an increase of 18.5%.

Main categories of exported goods

The structure of exports was dominated by oilseeds, which accounted for a 22.8% share. These were followed by machinery and electrical equipment (14.0%) and vegetables and fruits (11.1%). Other products, such as vegetable oils, petroleum products, furniture, and mineral materials, had smaller shares.

Import developments

Imports showed a mixed trend: in February they increased by 17.7% compared to January, but compared to the same period of the previous year they slightly decreased, by 1.5%.

Structure of imports

The most important imported products in January–February were gases and derived products, with a 17.7% share. These were followed by petroleum and petroleum products (7.1%), machinery and electrical equipment (6.8%), and electricity (5.6%). Additionally, vegetables, fruits, medicines, and telecommunications equipment were imported.