Companies Reluctant to Invest in Moldova: European Commission Publishes Figures

Fewer companies in the Republic of Moldova are planning to invest in business development amid economic uncertainty and regional risks. The share of businesses planning new investments in 2026 has fallen from 40% to approximately 32%. This means that only one in three companies has such plans, according to a European Commission report on the Republic of Moldova published on Wednesday, November 4, bani.md reports. According to the document, the decline in investment intentions is most pronounced among micro and small businesses, while larger companies report a greater willingness to invest. This difference suggests that smaller businesses are more vulnerable to economic uncertainty and risks affecting the business environment. The European Commission notes that although the authorities in Chisinau have stepped up efforts to improve the investment climate, structural problems in the economy and the consequences of Russia’s war against Ukraine continue to weigh on business activity. “The share of companies planning new investments in 2026 has fallen from 40% to approximately 32%. At the same time, large enterprises report an increase in investment intentions, while micro and small businesses report a decline,” the European Commission report states. Brussels also points to uncertainty surrounding changes to the regulatory framework. According to the report, the regulatory reform plan has not been published, limiting companies’ ability to anticipate legislative changes and plan their investments. This issue is particularly significant as the Republic of Moldova accelerates the process of aligning its legislation with European Union standards. The process entails frequent changes to the rules governing business activities.