CHISINAU - Delegations from the Republic of Moldova and the United States of America met in Chisinau, under the auspices of the Moldova – U.S. Joint Commercial Commission (JCC). The JCC was led by Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Economic Development and Digitalization, Dumitru Alaiba, and Deputy U.S. Trade Representative, Jayme White.
The JCC demonstrates the strength of the bilateral relationship and underlines the commitment from both sides to increase bilateral trade and improve Moldova's investment climate. This meeting reaffirmed Parties` commitment to resolve existing trade issues. To that end, the Parties agreed to work together to level the playing field for imports of large tractors from the United States and to begin discussions on a system audit to facilitate access for American beef into the Moldovan market. Both sides highlighted the importance of the utilization of Generalized System of Preferences for the export of Moldovan products to the U.S. market; in addition, the United States committed to examine any request from Moldova to expand GSP benefits, including to Moldovan agricultural products with export potential, contingent on reauthorization of GSP benefits. The JCC also presents an important opportunity to highlight our joint commitment to the principles that sustain a successful market-based economy – transparency, predictability, and the rule of law that can deliver for our workers.
Both sides reviewed the importance of transparent and predictable regulatory practices and committed to the continued recognition of international standards and nondiscriminatory policies in order to develop bilateral commerce and expand trade. The government of Moldova described its plans to improve its economic diplomacy. Noting the existing trade and investments relations between the countries and its desire to grow those relations, the Moldovan side announced its intention to create an economic bureau in the United States. The meeting also focused on efforts to improve Moldova’s business environment, and delegates discussed steps being taken to fight corruption and money laundering, strengthen institutions and create a level playing field for our workers.
The delegates also reviewed priority reforms and plans to create a favorable business environment in Moldova, in particular through simplifying procedures and regulations, with the goal of improving Moldova’s attractiveness as a destination for foreign investment. The United States welcomed Moldova’s commitment to strengthen the rule of law and fight against corruption and acknowledged the importance of transparency and predictability. The delegates also discussed the benefits derived from strong intellectual property rights protection and enforcement, which are essential elements for stimulating the growth of Moldova’s digital economy and information technology sector, including through prioritization of cybersecurity and critical information technology infrastructure.
Reflecting the Biden-Harris Administration’s worker centric trade policy, the delegations discussed promoting internationally recognized worker rights with the aim of helping to create opportunities for decent work and to enhance Moldova’s economic competitiveness.
Moldova highlighted the importance of a resilient energy sector and competitive energy prices for a favorable business environment. In this context, Moldova acknowledges the additional financial support announced by the United States in the amount of $300 Million to strengthen Moldova’s energy security, which will contribute to both energy resilience and new business opportunities.
The Republic of Moldova and the United States of America look forward to the continuation of the dialogue to enhance bilateral trade and investment opportunities and to improve living and working standards for all Moldovans.
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