The Cabinet of Ministers approved Technical Regulations on the main elements of data storage contracts concluded within the framework of the tobacco product tracking system
As noted by the Ministry of Finance, the document developed by the Ministry describes in detail the responsibilities of the data storage service provider, the Center for Information Technologies in Finance (CTIF), and establishes rules for concluding contracts and managing data. The regulations stipulate that the provider must create and operate a data storage facility, ensure the portability and continuity of information between storage facilities, and take measures to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data, including compliance with personal data legislation. The contract term is set at a minimum of five years with the possibility of extension, and the competent authorities have unlimited access for auditing and verification. The contracts clearly define the supplier's obligations, including in the event of a breach of confidentiality or security standards, and prohibit the suspension of services for late payments of less than 30 days. The full transfer of data to a new supplier in the event of a change is also regulated, without the right of retention. As noted by the Ministry of Finance, the adoption of the aforementioned regulation provides a clear and uniform basis for the functioning of the traceability system, ensuring transparency and predictability for economic operators and supporting the authorities in preventing the illegal trade in tobacco products. The document defines the main services provided by the supplier and establishes the essential elements that must be included in data storage contracts concluded between manufacturers or importers of tobacco products and the storage service provider. The main services provided by the provider include: the creation and operation of a repository in accordance with the Technical Regulations on the Creation and Operation of a National Tobacco Product Tracking System; the provision, upon request, of other ancillary technical services related to the operation of the data repository that contribute to the proper functioning of the repository system. At the same time, data storage contracts will include provisions relating to: the conclusion by the manufacturer or importer of tobacco products of a contract with the provider for the creation and operation of its data repository, as well as related services; the portability of data between different repositories using technologies that are readily available on the market and widely used in this sector. The contract will stipulate that the provider takes all necessary measures to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of all data stored during the term of the contract. The term of the contract will be set for a period of at least 5 years with the possibility of extension by agreement of the parties and subject to the supplier's continued compliance with the requirements of the Technical Regulation on the creation and operation of a national system for tracking tobacco products manufactured or imported into the territory of Moldova. It is expected that the decision adopted by the Cabinet of Ministers will have a direct and positive impact on the private sector, in particular on economic operators engaged in the production, distribution, and sale of tobacco products. Economic operators will benefit from a clear set of rules that will facilitate the conclusion of contracts with data storage service providers, reducing uncertainty and potential legal conflicts. In addition, provisions regarding the independence of service providers will contribute to the creation of a fair and equitable competitive environment, avoiding conflicts of interest and strengthening the integrity of the system. Furthermore, ensuring easy and secure access to data will enable authorities to monitor compliance more effectively, which will help prevent illegal trade and, indirectly, protect economic operators acting in accordance with the law. This will create conditions for a more balanced and transparent market in the interests of all participants. Although the implementation of the regulation's requirements may entail certain adjustments to companies' internal processes in the short term, they will be integrated into current activities without significant additional costs, as the rules will be clearly defined and standardized. In the long term, effective traceability and enhanced control will reduce the financial and reputational risks associated with violations and illegal trading practices. Thus, the document approved by the Cabinet of Ministers will contribute to the creation of a stable and predictable legislative framework that will support the healthy and responsible development of the private sector in the field of tobacco products. // 23.01.2026 — InfoMarket.
