Transnistria tightens economic grip, Chisinau calls for fairness
Tensions simmer on the Dniester River as Transnistria, the breakaway Moldovan region, plans to introduce new customs duties and utility fees for businesses under Chisinau's jurisdiction operating within its borders.
The self-proclaimed administration in Tiraspol announced the measures, effective February 1, aiming to "unify payments and increase budget revenues." Companies will face customs duties on goods exported to the right bank and pay utility rates at par with those on the other side of the river.
Chisinau, however, expressed concerns about the impact on businesses and called for a more balanced approach.
"Tiraspol is urged to realise the need for depoliticization and establish fair and non-discriminatory approaches in imports-exports, in relation to entrepreneurs on both banks," said Mariana Sarî, spokesperson for Chisinau's Reintegration Policy Bureau.
The move follows Moldova's January amendment to its customs code, requiring all companies, including those in Transnistria, to pay import duties. This aligns with Chisinau's efforts to gradually integrate the region into the country's economic and legal framework.
Analysts see the latest development as a potential escalation in the long-standing economic and political tug-of-war between the two sides.
"This could further complicate the already delicate situation and hinder efforts towards a peaceful resolution," said Andrei Popov, a political analyst based in Chișinău.
With the region's future hanging in the balance, the need for open dialogue and finding common ground remains paramount.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
