The Moldovan Parliament approved, in the first reading, amendments to the Law on Foreign Exchange Regulation that provide for the gradual liberalization of foreign exchange transactions until restrictions are fully lifted following the country's accession to the European Union. According to the bill drafted by the National Bank of Moldova, in the first phase, the maximum amount for certain transactions that can be conducted without NBM authorization will increase from 10,000 to 100,000 euros, and starting January 1, 2028, — to 250,000 euros. Authorization will no longer be required for residents to purchase foreign financial instruments admitted to Moldova's capital and money markets. The list of transactions not requiring authorization will also be expanded to include loans and credits provided to nonresidents by investment companies, nonbank lending institutions, and insurance and reinsurance companies. Starting October 1, 2027, the requirement to notify the NBM and register certain foreign loans and credits received by residents is scheduled to be abolished. According to the draft, resident individuals emigrating from Moldova will be able to open accounts abroad and transfer assets upon establishing permanent residence or while staying abroad. At the same time, the use of foreign currency will be expanded at airport retail outlets, on board aircraft, and at international border crossing points. Currency exchange offices will be able to provide payment services and distribute and redeem electronic money, provided they are registered as agents of licensed payment institutions or issuers of electronic money. Herewith, there are plans to expand the National Bank's authority regarding authorization, oversight, and the imposition of sanctions. The regulator will be able to refuse to process a transaction if there are risks related to international sanctions or the possible termination of correspondent banking relationships. Currency exchange offices will be required to submit their annual financial statements to the NBM. The bill is scheduled for a second reading. // 25.08.2026 — InfoMarket.