Society

14 February, 2026 / 15:32

/ 04 February, 2026

Environment Minister: There will be rigorous inspections in forestry sector and harsh penalties for illegal logging

The Ministry of Environment will launch a series of in‑depth inspections and checks in the forestry sector, following the identification of illegal logging in several localities across the Republic of Moldova. The statements were made today by the Minister of Environment, Gheorghe Hajder, who emphasized that the purpose of these actions is to ensure efficient and responsible management of forest resources.

“As I mentioned earlier, we will conduct a review of the service and we will return with concrete results,” Hajder stated.

The minister added that these inspections are part of a broader plan of the Environmental Protection Inspectorate and will include field visits and assessments of forestry enterprises throughout the country.

“The amount of damage, estimated only for illegal logging is about 7,500 lei, while the value of the timber exceeds 25,000 lei. In addition, other damages are yet to be assessed,” Gheorghe Hajder specified, referring to the related sanctions.

The minister stressed that the fine imposed will probably be the mildest sanction, given that in many cases criminal cases are also involved. He added that there will be rigorous inspections aimed at covering the country’s entire forest area and identifying all violations.

“We will come forward with conclusions regarding the reform of the environmental protection system and with concrete solutions to prevent illegal logging and ensure sustainable forest management,” he concluded.

Citizens and companies operating in the forestry sector were urged by the official to comply with legal regulations and to cooperate with the authorities to prevent environmental damage and associated economic losses.

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