Finance Minister Andrian Gavrilita said the projected 2026 budget deficit of about 5.5 percent of GDP is not excessive, given the successive crises of recent years and the lack of economic growth.
Gavrilita said that while the deficit is not small, it remains reasonable considering the challenges of the past five years, including the pandemic, the war, and the energy crisis. He explained that these shocks limited opportunities to increase budget revenues through economic growth, while authorities had to implement extensive support measures for the population.
The minister stressed that Moldova deficit as a share of GDP remains relatively low compared with other countries in the region and across Europe. He noted that public debt levels of around 35 to 40 percent of GDP place Moldova among countries with more favorable fiscal indicators.
Gavrilita also said the economy is beginning to show signs of recovery, which improves prospects for budget stability. He stated that the government forecasts economic growth of at least 2.4 percent and aims to raise it closer to 3 percent and beyond in the coming years.
According to the finance minister, the main investment priorities for 2026 include infrastructure, transport, support for businesses, and agriculture.