Logos Press was informed by the Ministry of Agriculture that two bids were submitted for the contest to select the administrator – from Eco-Ret Moldova and Moldreturo. The Eco-Ret association includes major producers and importers of beverages, including Efes Moldova, Carlsberg, Rusnac-MoldAqua, Gelibert, AquaTrade. The Moldreturo association unites mainly retail chains, the largest of which is Moldretail (Linella chain).
Millions in one hand
It should be noted that the system of returnable packaging is a huge farm, which is created within the framework of the Law on Waste and put into one hands. In the course of this reform it is planned to create a powerful infrastructure – packaging collection points, processing center and IT system of accounting, transport fleet, logistics and so on.
The key element of the system of collateral packaging (glass, metal or plastic) is a deposit of 2 lei, which is paid by the consumer when buying goods. Each product falling under the system will include this deposit. It is not the seller’s or administrator’s income: it is the consumer’s money, which must be returned to him when the package is returned.
Organizers expect the introduction of the SDA to increase recycling rates and strengthen the country’s waste management system. The system should be launched no later than January 25, 2027.
“Polluter pays.”
The Ministry of Agriculture estimates that the initial investment for the launch of the system could amount to 15-20 million euros. Funds should come from producers, who are obliged to finance the creation of infrastructure – from sorting centers to digital accounting and logistics.
According to the project, stores with an area of more than 150 square meters will be obliged to accept returnable containers or install taromats. Small retail outlets will have to organize manual acceptance. But their costs will be covered financially by suppliers and manufacturers.
So the decision is up to the Cabinet of Ministers: the appointment of an administrator will be the first stage in launching the system in due time.
