The statement was sent against the background of public hearings of the parliamentary Commission on Economy, Budget and Finance. The association stresses that the issue is not just about the cost of gasoline or diesel – the country’s accessibility for tourists, the mobility of citizens and the competitiveness of the economy as a whole are at stake.
Tourist travel is becoming more expensive
“Every increase in fuel prices affects the cost of travel, tour packages and airline tickets. As a result, Moldova risks becoming less attractive compared to neighboring countries,” said APIT Director Serghei Mania.
The organization insists that the state policy in this field should take into account the chain reaction: from the costs of carriers to the final price for the tourist. According to industry representatives, without a comprehensive approach, the country may lose part of the tourist flow and investment interest.
Availability of air transportation is falling
The Association proposed specific steps to the authorities. These include including the impact of fuel prices in the official analysis of the transportation and tourism sectors, assessing the consequences for the cost of tourism services, as well as temporary support measures for companies operating in these areas.
A special emphasis is placed on civil aviation. APIT believes that it should be recognized as a strategic infrastructure of national importance, as it provides a link between the country and external markets, tourists and investors.
Industry experts warn: in conditions of growing competition for tourists, Moldova cannot afford to ignore the factor of transport accessibility. Without coordinated solutions at the state level, rising costs may slow down the development of several sectors of the economy at once.
According to Serghei Mania, APIT intends to continue to seek a systematic approach from the authorities and to promote the idea that tourism, transportation and aviation are not separate sectors, but a single ecosystem.
