---
title: "EU harmonisation fuels Moldova's customs modernization"
url: https://radiomoldova.md/p/27192/eu-harmonisation-fuels-moldova-s-customs-modernization
published: 2023-12-20T14:17:27Z
language: en
author: "Viorica Rusica"
section: "Political"
source: radiomoldova.md
---

# EU harmonisation fuels Moldova's customs modernization

> A transformative era for Moldova's trade landscape commences on January 1, 2024, with the entry into force of the nation's revised Customs Code.

A transformative era for Moldova's trade landscape commences on January 1, 2024, with the entry into force of the nation's revised Customs Code.

![](https://storage.radiomoldova.md/images/f9080046-305d-45c2-8833-99848674af6f.jpg)

The code prioritises harmonisation with European Union (EU) customs legislation and paves the way for a digitalized system, aiming to enhance efficiency and facilitate business operations.

The cornerstone of the reform lies in the progressive digitization of the customs information system. *"All customs procedures will undergo gradual digitalization, commencing January 1st,"* declared Igor Talmazan, head of the Moldovan Customs Service. He emphasised the tangible benefits for businesses, highlighting *"the utilisation of modern customs control technologies"* and streamlined processes as key features of the updated code.

*"The new procedures, particularly for exports, will facilitate automated export declaration validation and reduce interaction with customs authorities,"* Talmazan elaborated. *"For imports, we will implement a digitalized procedure that transitions from random checks to a system based on clearly defined principles. Only specific consignments flagged by our risk analysis system will be subject to control, empowering businesses with greater responsibility for their cargo."*

External partners have contributed approximately 40 million lei in financial support for the implementation of the new code. The EU, Moldova's primary trade partner, warmly welcomes the move. *"The EU Customs Code operates effectively across 27 member states, and its adaptability to Moldova's context is evident,"* stated Vasile Plămădeală, trade officer of the EU delegation to Chisinau. He further underscored the significance of modernised customs regulations in Moldova's ongoing quest for EU integration: *"A robust and efficient trade environment is fundamental to this process."*

The adoption of the new Customs Code fulfils a critical commitment outlined in the Moldova-EU Association Agreement. The accompanying Regulation for its implementation will come into effect alongside the code on January 1st, 2024.

Translation by **Iurie Tataru**