A provision in Moldova’s draft fiscal and budget policy that concerned the taxation of money received at weddings, christenings and other family events has been removed. Finance Minister Andrian Gavrilita said the decision was taken following public consultations.
Gavrilita said the government’s intention had not been to introduce taxes on money received during family celebrations, but rather to prevent the use of large donations to justify unexplained wealth.
“The aim was not to interfere with our citizens’ family celebrations. It was primarily intended to address situations where certain categories of citizens, especially public officials, declare tens of thousands of euros as donations after various events in their asset declarations, thereby creating a legal basis for wealth that raises concerns,” the minister said during the TVR Moldova programme Obiectiv Comun.
According to the minister, the authorities wanted to start a discussion about what constitutes a reasonable level of donations at such events. However, following consultations, they concluded that potential abuses can be addressed through existing legal mechanisms.
“After discussions and consultations, we agreed that where abuses exist, there are other instruments available to address them,” Gavrilita said.
The finance minister added that the government decided to abandon the proposal in order to avoid further public discontent.
“At this stage, it is not appropriate to introduce measures affecting citizens’ family events. Therefore, this provision will be removed,” he said.