Coal imports into the Republic of Moldova have fallen sharply in recent months, just before the start of the cold season. In September, the country imported only around 130 tonnes, compared with approximately 4,700 tonnes in July. Energy Minister Dorin Junghietu explained the possible reasons for the decline in deliveries following a Government meeting.
According to figures presented by the minister, between January 1 and October 18, 2026, the Republic of Moldova imported approximately 77,000 tonnes of coal, around 19% less than during the same period last year. Supplies came mainly from Romania, Turkey, and Ukraine. Imports also came from Kazakhstan, Switzerland, and the Russian Federation.
Of the total volume imported, approximately 63,000 tonnes were anthracite, a type of coal with a high calorific value. Another 9,400 tonnes were bituminous coal, while the remainder consisted of other types of coal.
The decline was particularly pronounced over the past three months. While approximately 4,700 tonnes were imported in July, the volume fell to around 1,500 tonnes in August and just 126–130 tonnes in September.
Dorin Junghietu said Moldova’s coal market depends on importers’ decisions, as they adjust their purchases according to conditions on foreign markets and transport availability. One factor that could affect deliveries is the security situation in the Black Sea region. The minister noted that attacks and the war can disrupt coal transportation, including shipments by rail and barge through Danube ports.
Another possible reason is rising demand in European markets. According to Junghietu, hydrological drought in some European countries has led to the restart of certain coal-fired power generation capacities. Under these circumstances, the availability of coal for export could decrease.
The minister named Germany as one potential source of supply on the European market, alongside Turkey and Serbia. Alternatives also include Australia, Vietnam, and Canada, although transporting coal from these countries would involve higher costs.