Progress and new commitments in sanitary and phytosanitary sector discussed at Moldova–EU meeting

Moldova's progress in aligning with European standards on food safety, animal health and plant protection, as well as the intensification of cooperation with the European Union within the Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Chapter of the Association Agreement were the main topics of the 11th meeting of Moldova-EU Sub-Committee on Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS), hosted on 28 October by the National Agency for Food Safety (ANSA).

The forum was attended by representatives of the European Commission (DG SANTE), the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry (MAIA), the Office for European Integration, as well as other relevant national institutions.


“The meeting covered a review of progress and mutual commitments on the implementation of the provisions of the Association Agreement, addressing developments in the agri-food exports, animal disease management and the harmonization of national legislation with the EU acquis,” explains MAIA.


Remarkable progress in food safety and animal health

ANSA director-general Radu Musteața emphasized that the Republic of Moldova has made significant progress in exports to the European Union, particularly concerning products of animal origin and planting material. At the same time, the official noted the positive results achieved in managing Avian Influenza and African Swine Fever outbreaks, stating that according to European experts' recommendations, they have been successfully eradicated.


“Strengthening the food safety system and veterinary and phytosanitary control is an essential condition for our integration into the European market. Through joint efforts with EU partners, we have advanced significantly in this process,” said Radu Musteața.


SPS Cooperation — strategic pillar in EU accession process

State Secretary at the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry Iurie Scripnic said that joining the European Union remains a strategic objective for the Republic of Moldova, with the sanitary and phytosanitary field representing a central pillar in the endeavor.


“In 2025 we completed the screening for chapters 11, 12 and 13, and in 2026 we aim to harmonize about 260 legislative documents. It is a significant effort but absolutely necessary to strengthen the compatibility of our systems with European ones and to facilitate agri-food trade,” said Scripnic.


Perspectives for 2026

During the meeting, the participants appreciated the SPS Sub-Committee activity as an effective tool for monitoring mutual commitments and supporting the EU accession process. In 2026, the Republic of Moldova will undergo several audit missions from the European Commission, targeting new categories of Moldovan-origin products that could be exported to the EU market.

The Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Sub-Committee remains an essential platform for cooperation between the Republic of Moldova and the European Union, contributing to the strengthening the regulatory framework, increasing the competitiveness of agri-food products and ensuring consumer protection.