Over the past 10 years, Moldova's economy has grown by an average of only 1.9% per year: industrialization and increased added value are needed - Veaceslav Ionita
The economic expert analyzed statistical data on Moldova's GDP dynamics, noting that the country's economy has once again failed to meet optimistic expectations. “We predicted GDP growth of 2.7%, but in 2025 it was only 2.4% – less than our forecast and also less than the IMF and government estimates. The main explanation is clearly visible in the quarterly dynamics. After a very good third quarter, the economy slowed sharply. In the fourth quarter, GDP fell by 0.6%, and this correction dragged down the final result for the year. This dynamic once again confirms a simple economic truth: there are no miracles, and if you do nothing, nothing happens,” the expert said. He clarified that the growth in the third quarter was not the result of structural reforms or industrial momentum, but was almost entirely due to climatic factors. In 2025, there was sufficient rainfall, which ensured a good agricultural harvest and growth in exports of plant agricultural products. However, with the end of the agricultural season, the economy returned to its structural reality, and in the fourth quarter, the effect of agriculture was exhausted, and the economy was left without an engine of growth. Veaceslav Ionita pointed out that the root of the problem is much deeper: Moldova continues to export raw materials rather than processed products, while the food industry, once the pride of the national economy, has lost some of its capacity and role in the value chain. At the same time, by exporting wheat, seeds, or other unprocessed agricultural products, the added value remains in other economies. “Over the past 10 years, Moldova's economy has grown by an average of only 1.9% per year. Moreover, GDP in 2025 is still below the 2021 level. Thus, in four years, the economy has not been able to recover to the level that existed before the recent crises. At the same time, Moldova is the only country on the border with Ukraine where GDP in 2025 has not returned to its pre-war level,” the economist noted. He emphasizes that Moldova's economy is growing too little, too slowly, and is too dependent on external factors such as climate, agriculture, or market conditions, and that sustainable growth is only possible with the development of industry, processing, and an increase in the share of added value. // 12.03.2026 — InfoMarket
