The changes are aimed at reducing bureaucratic procedures and bringing the operations of free economic zones into compliance with the Customs Code, which will take effect in 2024. Companies that obtain resident status after January 1, 2024, will operate under a special storage regime, and they will require an additional customs permit for processing and manufacturing activities.
The rules governing access to free economic zones by individuals and vehicles will also be clarified. Entry and exit procedures will depend on the resident’s category.
In addition, the requirement to coordinate resident selection criteria with the Ministry of Economic Development and Digitalization is being eliminated, which should reduce administrative steps and accelerate the attraction of investment.
“During discussions with the administrations of free economic zones and resident entrepreneurs, we identified a number of issues in the procedures for selection, authorization, and conducting business. We propose to simplify operations for residents and reduce the administrative burden on businesses,” said Eugen Osmochescu, Minister of Economic Development and Digitalization.
Currently, 240 residents operate in the six free economic zones of the Republic of Moldova, providing more than 12,800 jobs. The total accumulated investment amounts to $653.8 million.
Separately, Cabinet members approved revisions to the boundaries and areas of several free economic zones—“Belț,” “Ungheni-Business,” the Vulcănești Free Economic Zone, and the Taraclia Free Economic Zone. The changes are intended to remove administrative restrictions and allow undeveloped land plots to be used for other economic projects. Specifically, the area of the “Belț” zone is planned to be reduced from 283.7 hectares to 231.6 hectares.
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