Moldova is introducing more flexible and responsive mechanisms for government intervention in situations of high alert or energy crises
This is provided for in a corresponding bill passed by Parliament in its second reading with the aim of improving the regulatory framework in the areas of energy, fuel, transportation, and public procurement. The legislative initiative was proposed by a group of MPs from the PAS faction and was developed within a working group established under the Committee on Economy, Budget, and Finance, with the participation of representatives from the Ministry of Energy, the Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development, and the National Energy Regulatory Agency (ANRE). It has been agreed that in crisis situations, ANRE will be able to introduce temporary deviations from the usual pricing rules for gasoline and diesel fuel at the suggestion of the National Crisis Management Center. This may include adjusting the reporting period or using alternative Platts quotations to better reflect market realities. Retail sales of other types of basic petroleum products, other than those subject to maximum prices, are also permitted in the event of a depletion of standard basic petroleum product stocks, provided they are sold at a price not exceeding the maximum price set for standard basic petroleum products. Another proposal aims to eliminate the requirement that fuel be transported exclusively through oil depots. Thus, gasoline and diesel fuel can be delivered directly to gas stations, reducing transportation time and the burden on storage infrastructure. The document also introduces changes to the public procurement sector. In the event of significant price fluctuations—defined as changes of more than 15%, according to data from the National Bureau of Statistics—customers will be able to adjust existing contracts. This measure is intended to support the construction sector, which has been affected by the rapid and unpredictable rise in prices for fuel and construction materials. The authors argue that the rapid and unpredictable rise in fuel and construction material prices is creating financial pressure on businesses and affecting their ability to fulfill existing contracts. Most long-term contracts concluded in 2023–2025 provide only for an annual adjustment mechanism based on inflation. At the same time, for contracts with a term of less than one year, adjustments to their value are not permitted. “In the absence of swift and adequate measures, the sector’s ability to participate in and absorb future major infrastructure projects will be significantly reduced,” the explanatory note to the document states. As noted, there is also a risk that planned investment projects will be blocked. Moldova is currently on high alert in the energy sector after a state of emergency was declared in the country from March 25 to April 25, triggered by the shutdown of the Vulcanesti-Isaccea power line following attacks on energy infrastructure in Ukraine. As a result, a power shortage of up to 400 MW has developed during peak hours. At the same time, instability in the Middle East has led to an increase in diesel fuel prices of approximately 50%. The bill will take effect after publication in the Official Journal of Moldova. // 28.05.2026 — InfoMarket.
