The Ministry of Economic Development and Digitalization (MEDD) invited Moldovan exporters who sell goods and services on the U.S. market to discuss the impact of the new customs duties introduced by the U.S. administration. Forty business operators in the U.S. market said they need time to understand the innovative rules and assess their consequences.
Minister Doina Nistor stated:
“For many of the companies present today, the U.S. market represented a major expansion opportunity, especially in 2024 when our exports grew to $90 million. We want to turn this challenge into an opportunity. Authorities and business leaders are analyzing the impact of the new U.S. tariffs, and we will propose concrete solutions for each exported product.”
Although producers raised concerns about the competitiveness of Moldovan products in the U.S., some of them believe the American market will absorb the price changes and that the European market could serve as an alternative.
Mircea Manoli, director of the Food Industry Processors Association “Speranta Con,” explained:
“Partially, the American market will absorb the price shock, especially in the juice sector, where the U.S. lacks domestic production of concentrated beverages. Our best alternative could be the European Union, and we’ll also explore the Asian market.”
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Designer Iulia Allert added that she finds it difficult to give up U.S. sales since the country offers a highly developed e-commerce market, and her brand has already gained strong visibility among customers. She plans to analyze the impact of the new tariffs on her business in the coming days.
Stefan Iamandi, director of the National Office for Vine and Wine, emphasized:
“This meeting is crucial for winemakers. Things would have turned out differently if this had happened at the start of the year. Given last year’s strong performance in the U.S. market, assessing the full impact right away is difficult. We believe expanding into alternative markets—particularly in Europe—is essential to keep our products competitive.”
Service sector representatives noted that their revenues could decline in 2025, as their U.S. clients will face direct financial pressure due to the new tariffs.
Officials at the MEDD stated that the ministry will evaluate the impact on each specific product and propose steps to help exporters adapt to the new tariffs.
According to the MEDD representatives, in 2024, Moldova exported 48% of its dessert wines, 14% of its fruit juices (especially apple juice), 9% of plastic and transport-related items, 5% of alcoholic beverages, 2% of pastry goods, and 3% of textile garments to the U.S. market.
At the beginning of April, the U.S. administration announced a significant hike in customs tariffs on most imported goods, including those from Moldova. The new rules impose a 31% tariff on Moldovan products.