Liberalization of the Foreign Exchange Market in Moldova: What Will Change for Citizens and Businesses
Igor Stratan, Director of the Network and Alternative Channels Department at Moldindconbank
Currency regulation
In Moldova, the limit on foreign exchange transactions without BNM authorization will be gradually increased to 250,000 euros
Moldova is preparing a phased easing of foreign exchange regulations: certain transactions and settlements will be permitted without regulatory approval under broader conditions, and restrictions will be gradually eased over the coming years. At the same time, opportunities for residents and currency exchange offices are being expanded, while the National Bank will gain additional control tools and will be able to block transactions if risks are identified.
The National Bank of Moldova raised its base rate to 9% per annum
The National Bank of Moldova raised the base rate applied to its main short-term monetary policy operations by another 1.5 percentage points—from 7.5% to 9% per annum.
Moldova's national debt will rise to 162.9 billion lei by the end of 2026
Moldova's national debt, according to forecasts, as of December 31 will not exceed 162 billion 886.3 million lei and will increase by 6 billion 853.3 million lei compared to the amount approved for 2026, mainly due to an increase in external public debt
The limit on foreign exchange transactions in Moldova will be raised in stages
The limit on foreign exchange transactions without NBM authorization will be raised to 100,000 euros, and to 250,000 euros starting in 2028
Moldova's external public debt rose to $4.86 billion over seven months
Moldova's external public debt increased by $45.34 million (+0.9%) in January–July 2026, totaling $4 billion 855.95 million as of July 31
The National Bank of Moldova has raised its inflation forecast for 2026 and 2027
Moldova's central bank has revised up its inflation outlook for the next two years and signaled that price pressures are likely to stay elevated for longer than previously expected. The decision came alongside a tighter monetary policy move, with the bank pointing to a mix of domestic and external factors behind the updated forecast.
The National Bank of Moldova raised the base rate to a three-year high
The National Bank of Moldova has lifted its key policy rate to a three-year high, signaling a fresh shift in its monetary stance after a series of earlier adjustments. Market participants will be watching closely for the implications for borrowing costs, inflation expectations and the central bank's next moves.
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