Eugen Osmochescu said that products from Russia and Belarus continue to be sold in the Republic of Moldova, but only within the limits of the international legal framework and the sanctions currently in force.
The minister explained that store shelves mainly feature everyday consumer goods that international sanctions or those imposed by the European Union do not target. He emphasized that Moldova respects existing trade agreements with several countries, including Russia and Belarus.
“From a personal standpoint, I do not buy or consume Russian and Belarusian products, given the war in Ukraine,” the minister said, while noting that legal and trade commitments determine state-level decisions.
Authorities are analyzing the possibility of reducing dependence on imports from these countries, including in the context of new sanctions adopted by the European Union, with which Moldova seeks to align.
According to data presented by the minister, trade relations with CIS countries—especially Russia and Belarus—are declining. In 2025, exports to these markets accounted for about 6.5% of Moldova’s total exports. The main goods still exported to these markets include agri-food products such as apples and cherries. He also noted that the sector needs logistical improvements to maintain its competitiveness.