Moldova Import Restrictions

by countryaah · Published June 2, 2019 · Updated February 13, 2025

In order to enter Moldova, certain goods are subject to specific controls and, regardless of their value and quantity, they require the consent of Moldova government, preferably, license must be obtained prior to passage through the customs, preventing the goods from being retained. On this page, you will see what kinds of items are prohibited from entering the Moldova, and which items need special documentation before exporting to Moldova.

Moldova, a landlocked country in Eastern Europe, has a growing economy that relies heavily on imports to meet the demands of its population. The country’s import regulations are designed to protect public health, promote safety, safeguard the environment, and maintain national security. Moldova is also a member of international organizations such as the World Trade Organization (WTO) and has signed trade agreements with the European Union (EU), meaning that it has to align with international trade practices while also enforcing specific local laws and standards.

Moldova’s import restrictions are regulated by a number of government agencies, most notably the Customs Service, which is responsible for enforcing tariffs and import laws. In addition, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Agriculture, and the Environmental Protection Agency play vital roles in regulating the import of goods that may affect public health, local industries, or the environment. These regulations ensure that imported goods meet the required safety, quality, and environmental standards. Understanding Moldova’s import restrictions is crucial for businesses and individuals wishing to engage in trade with the country.

Prohibited Items for Import into Moldova

Moldova imposes several prohibitions on specific categories of goods to protect its population and economy. These items are considered hazardous, harmful, or unnecessary for importation due to their negative impact on public health, safety, or the environment. Some of these prohibitions are aligned with international trade agreements that Moldova has signed, ensuring compliance with global best practices.

Products Harmful to Public Health and Safety

Moldova’s import policies are stringent when it comes to products that could harm public health or pose a safety risk. The government has established restrictions to prevent the entry of dangerous goods, particularly those that may adversely affect human health or safety.

Illicit Drugs and Narcotics: The importation of illicit drugs, narcotics, and psychotropic substances is strictly prohibited in Moldova. The Moldovan Narcotic Drugs Control Law aligns with international conventions such as the United Nations Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs and the UN Convention Against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances. The Moldova Customs Service works with law enforcement to monitor and prevent the smuggling of illegal drugs. Narcotic substances such as heroin, cocaine, and synthetic drugs are considered harmful to public health and are banned from entering the country. Those attempting to import illegal drugs face severe penalties, including imprisonment, fines, and the confiscation of goods.
Counterfeit Medicines and Hazardous Products: The importation of counterfeit medicines and other substandard or hazardous health-related products is also prohibited. The Ministry of Health regulates the entry of pharmaceutical products and medical devices into Moldova. Counterfeit medicines are a significant public health threat as they may be ineffective or harmful. To protect the population, only certified, approved, and safe pharmaceutical products are allowed. Similarly, hazardous medical devices, such as unapproved diagnostic tools or surgical instruments, are banned from entering the country. The Ministry ensures that all imported medical products comply with international safety standards, and any goods that do not meet these standards are rejected.

Environmentally Harmful Goods

Moldova is committed to environmental sustainability, and as part of this commitment, it has established import restrictions on products that could harm its natural resources. These restrictions aim to prevent the introduction of pollutants, invasive species, and environmentally harmful goods that could negatively affect local ecosystems.

Hazardous Waste and E-Waste: Moldova adheres to international treaties like the Basel Convention on the control of transboundary movements of hazardous waste. Consequently, the importation of hazardous waste, including medical, industrial, and electronic waste (e-waste), is prohibited. E-waste, which includes old electronic devices such as computers, televisions, and mobile phones, contains toxic substances such as lead, mercury, and cadmium. Improper disposal of these materials can cause severe environmental damage, including contamination of water sources and soil. To mitigate these risks, Moldova has put in place strict import controls on e-waste and hazardous materials, ensuring that they do not enter the country.
Products Derived from Endangered Species: Moldova enforces regulations that prevent the importation of products derived from endangered species. These items may include ivory, animal pelts, rare plants, and other wildlife products that are part of illegal wildlife trade. As a signatory of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), Moldova is committed to preventing the trade in goods that threaten biodiversity. The country has implemented laws that ban the importation of goods made from endangered species to protect global wildlife populations and ecosystems. Any attempts to import such goods are subject to heavy fines and legal action.

Products Requiring Import Licenses

While Moldova bans certain goods entirely, other products can be imported into the country with the appropriate licenses. These products must undergo an approval process to ensure they meet the necessary national standards for safety, quality, and compliance with environmental regulations. The import license system helps the authorities monitor and control the entry of high-risk goods that may require special scrutiny or regulation.

Goods Subject to Import Licensing

Certain categories of goods require an import license in Moldova due to their potential impact on public health, safety, or the environment. The licensing system ensures that these products meet the country’s regulatory standards and undergo proper inspection before being allowed entry.

Pharmaceuticals and Medical Equipment: The importation of pharmaceutical products and medical devices requires a license from the Ministry of Health. All pharmaceuticals, including prescription drugs and over-the-counter medicines, must be approved for use in Moldova. The Ministry of Health reviews the safety, efficacy, and quality of medicines and medical devices before they can be imported into the country. Importers must submit documentation that proves the products have been approved by recognized international regulatory bodies such as the World Health Organization (WHO). Medical devices such as diagnostic tools, surgical instruments, and other health-related products must also meet Moldova’s health and safety standards before they are cleared for import. Any medical products that do not meet these standards are not allowed to enter the market.
Agricultural Products and Livestock: The Ministry of Agriculture, Regional Development, and Environment regulates the importation of agricultural products, including food, livestock, seeds, and fertilizers. Importers must obtain a license to ensure that these goods comply with the country’s health and safety standards. This is particularly important for products that could potentially carry pests, diseases, or other risks to local agriculture. The Ministry inspects imported goods to ensure they do not introduce harmful pathogens or pests that could affect Moldova’s agricultural industry. Additionally, livestock and animal products must meet veterinary health standards to prevent the spread of diseases such as foot-and-mouth disease or avian influenza. Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are also subject to strict controls and require additional permits for importation.

Environmentally Regulated Goods

In line with its commitment to sustainable development and environmental protection, Moldova regulates the importation of certain goods that could have negative environmental effects. These goods require special permits to ensure they comply with environmental standards and do not contribute to pollution or resource depletion.

Chemicals and Hazardous Materials: The Ministry of Environment regulates the importation of chemicals and hazardous substances that could pose a risk to human health or the environment. Certain chemicals, including industrial solvents, pesticides, and fertilizers, require an import license to ensure they are handled and used safely. Importers must submit detailed information about the chemicals’ composition, potential risks, and the safe use and disposal methods to meet Moldova’s environmental safety standards. The Ministry assesses whether these substances are compatible with the country’s environmental protection policies before granting permission for their importation. Chemicals that may contribute to air, water, or soil pollution, or those that pose health risks, are carefully scrutinized.
Plastic and Packaging Materials: In response to global concerns about plastic waste, Moldova has introduced regulations on the importation of plastic products, particularly those that are non-biodegradable or difficult to recycle. The country aims to reduce plastic pollution and has implemented measures to limit the entry of harmful plastic packaging materials. Importers of plastic goods, including packaging, must obtain a license and demonstrate that their products meet the country’s sustainability standards. Products that are non-recyclable or non-biodegradable are subject to stricter controls. The government encourages the importation of environmentally friendly alternatives and has developed regulations that promote the reduction of single-use plastics.

Regulated Consumer Goods

Certain consumer goods in Moldova are also subject to import licenses to ensure that they meet safety, quality, and environmental standards before being sold on the local market. These goods include motor vehicles, electronics, and household appliances, which must undergo regulatory approval to ensure they comply with national technical and safety regulations.

Motor Vehicles and Spare Parts: The Ministry of Transport and Road Infrastructure regulates the importation of motor vehicles to ensure that they meet safety, emissions, and environmental standards. To import vehicles into Moldova, importers must obtain a license and ensure that the vehicles comply with local road safety standards and EU emissions regulations. The Ministry inspects vehicles to ensure that they are roadworthy and environmentally friendly, with particular focus on reducing air pollution through stringent emissions controls. Used vehicles are subject to additional scrutiny to ensure they meet these regulations. Similarly, spare parts for vehicles are also regulated and require proper certification to ensure that they comply with national safety and quality standards.
Electronics and Household Appliances: The National Agency for Standardization regulates the importation of electronic products, including refrigerators, air conditioners, televisions, and other household appliances. These products must meet Moldovan safety standards to prevent electrical hazards and comply with energy efficiency requirements. Importers must submit proof that their goods have been tested and certified by recognized international bodies, such as the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). The goal is to ensure that only safe and energy-efficient products are available in Moldova’s market. Importers of non-compliant products may face penalties or rejection at the border.