Authorities propose adjusting Chinese tariffs on Moldovan wines
The Republic of Moldova proposes to China to examine the possibility of adjusting customs duties applied to imports of Moldovan wines, in order to increase their presence on the Chinese market.
During his visit to Beijing, Deputy Prime Minister Mihai Popșoi addressed the subject of economic cooperation. This marked the first official visit to China by a Moldovan Minister of Foreign Affairs since 2018.
In discussions with Ling Ji, the Deputy Minister of Commerce of the People's Republic of China, Mihai Popșoi emphasized Moldova's interest in diversifying and increasing exports of agri-food products, particularly wines.
He also welcomed the recent signing of agreements allowing the export of sunflower seed flour and grape seed flour from Moldova to China. The Deputy Prime Minister underscored the importance of promoting "Made in Moldova" products and enhancing interactions between the business communities of both countries.
According to a press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, "The Deputy Prime Minister expressed gratitude for the support provided for the participation of Moldovan companies in economic exhibitions organized in China, as well as for expanding their visibility on major Chinese digital platforms."
In response, the Chinese official acknowledged the quality and potential of Moldovan wines and grapes, noting that they are well-regarded by Chinese consumers. Ling Ji reaffirmed China's openness to increasing imports and facilitating access for Moldovan products to the Chinese market.
The two officials also discussed potential collaboration in infrastructure, agriculture, logistics, and e-commerce. By the end of the meeting, they agreed to identify new projects to strengthen economic, trade, and investment relations between Moldova and China.
Furthermore, a team of experts from the Agency for International Development and Cooperation (CIDCA) will conduct feasibility studies on several initiatives that could be implemented in Moldova with support from China. These initiatives will focus on renewable energy and electricity storage, as well as the provision of specialized services, technical equipment, and medical products. The commencement of these studies was confirmed through an exchange of notes with the President of CIDCA, Chen Xiaodong.
China is one of the top three trading partners of the Republic of Moldova, with bilateral trade surpassing one billion dollars in 2025. The Republic of Moldova primarily exports wine, electrical circuit-switching and protection equipment, and beverages, including mineral and carbonated waters, to the Chinese market. In return, Moldova mainly imports telephones, cars, and air conditioners from China.
There are currently 81 companies with Chinese capital operating in the Republic of Moldova. The main areas of interest for Chinese investors include agriculture, agricultural processing, and infrastructure projects.
