The MIA instant payment system has become a key catalyst for financial inclusion and economic resilience in Moldova, with half of the country's adult population already using it - the NBM
This was stated by Anca Dragu, President of the National Bank of Moldova, speaking at a roundtable discussion on "Recovery and Resilience at Local Level," organized by the Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies and the German Marshall Fund as part of the PEPER project "Place-based Economic Policy in EU's Periphery - fundamental research in collaborative development and local resilience. Projections for Romania and Moldova." The event brought together decision-makers, experts, and academics from Romania and Moldova, who analyzed how public policies and economic and financial instruments can contribute to strengthening the resilience of local communities in the context of contemporary economic, social, and geopolitical challenges. In her speech, the Governor of the NBM emphasized the role of financial inclusion, modern payment infrastructure, and compliance with European standards in supporting local economic development. Anca Dragu highlighted the progress achieved by Moldova through integration into the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA), the development of the MIA instant payment system, and the development of the National Financial Inclusion Strategy as specific instruments for supporting families, small and medium-sized enterprises, and local authorities. She noted that local resilience is strengthened through effective access to safe and affordable financial services. "Through its policies and the development of a modern payment infrastructure, the National Bank of Moldova supports the transition to digital payments and promotes financial education, reducing the economic vulnerability of the population. These instruments provide communities with greater stability, support small businesses, and facilitate financial inclusion. "Integration into the European financial space creates concrete opportunities for local development and strengthens citizens' trust," said Anca Dragu. The NBM President also noted that the MIA instant payment system has become an important catalyst for financial inclusion and economic resilience, already used by half of the country's adult population, including in rural areas. At the same time, Moldova's integration into SEPA helps reduce transfer costs, support the business environment, and facilitate remittances from the diaspora, which has a direct impact on the local economy. The event, held in Bucharest, provided a platform for regional and European policy dialogue on sustainable development, financial stability, and strengthening economic resilience for the benefit of citizens and local communities. // 12.12.2025 — InfoMarket
