Transnistrian business integration into Moldova's legal framework grows
Transnistrian businesses are increasingly formalizing their operations under Republic of Moldova jurisdiction to access international markets. Despite political hurdles, 2,478 companies from the breakaway region are now registered with Moldova's Public Services Agency (ASP) as of mid-2025.
The Bureau for Reintegration Policy reports that this shift reflects a pragmatic choice by regional entrepreneurs. By operating within Moldova's legal framework, these firms bypass Tiraspol’s restrictions to utilize Chisinau’s administrative and legal tools.
Economic alignment and EU trade
In 2024, Transnistrian-based companies paid approximately €8.47 million (166 million MDL) in customs duties to the national budget. This fiscal contribution signals the steady consolidation of a unified economic landscape across both banks of the Dniester River.
The European Union remains the primary destination for regional goods, accounting for 71% of total exports. Romania, Poland, and Italy lead the trade rankings, while EU imports into the Transnistrian region have reached 48%.
International certification standards
To maintain global trade links, regional firms rely on Moldovan certificates of origin. Authorities processed 3,894 such documents in 2025, with over 2,000 certifying preferential status for the EU market.
This economic integration is mirrored by demographic trends. Of the 375,000 residents in the Transnistrian region, approximately 347,000 now hold Republic of Moldova citizenship, representing over 92% of the population.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
