Moldova launches negotiations for international road transport agreement with People’s Republic of China

The government of Moldova, at today’s meeting, approved the launch of negotiations for a new strategic agreement with the People’s Republic of China in the field of international road transport. The decision marks an important stage in diversifying trade routes and strengthening economic relations between the two states, providing a modern legal framework for freight and passenger transport operators.

The cabinet has appointed a team of experts who will represent the interests of Moldova at the negotiating table. The official delegation will be led by Mircea Pascaluta, State Secretary for Transport at Infrastructure and Regional Development Ministry (MIDR). He has also been authorized to initial the final text of the agreement, once discussions with the Chinese side are concluded.

The negotiating group also includes Andrei Slanina, Head of the Road Transport Policy Directorate (MIDR), and Ion Bularga, Adviser at the International Law Directorate of the Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Through this decision, the government repeals a similar resolution from 2008, underscoring the need to adapt the terms of cooperation to new global economic realities and current international logistics standards. The new agreement aims to simplify the transit of goods and to regulate road transport flows more efficiently, thereby facilitating access of Moldovan producers to the Chinese market and vice versa.

This initiative is aligned with national efforts to transform Moldova into a regional logistics hub, capable of ensuring safe and quick connections between Europe and Asian markets. The negotiations will focus on such aspects as transport authorizations, the tax regime applicable to carriers and road safety standards.

Establishing a clear framework for international road transport with the People’s Republic of China is seen as a catalyst for increasing the volume of trade. Once signed and ratified, the agreement will reduce administrative barriers to transport companies, providing a solid legal basis for long-term investment in transcontinental transport routes.

The decision will enter into force on the date of its publication in the Official Journal, after which the negotiating team will begin the official consultation process with the Beijing authorities.