• GDP: US$2.6 billion (2006).
• Main exports: Food, textiles and machinery.
• Main imports: Mineral products and fuel, machinery and equipment, chemicals, and textiles.
• Main trade partners: Russia, Romania, Ukraine, Germany and Italy.

Moldova remains one of the poorest countries in Europe. It has a temperate climate and good farmland but has no major mineral deposits and must import almost all of its energy supplies. As a result, the economy depends heavily on agriculture, particularly fruits, vegetables, wine and tobacco.

GDP grew by 6% or more every year between 2000-05, though this was based largely on consumption fed by money received from Moldovans working outside of the country - about 25% of working-age Moldovans are employed abroad. The country had an unemployment rate of 7.3% in 2005.

The illegal separatist regime in the Transistria region also continues to drag on the Moldovan economy.

Formal business etiquette applies to Moldovan business meetings, and smart attire is required.

Office hours: Mon-Fri 0800-1700.

Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Republic of Moldova
151 Stefan cel Mare Str, Chisinau, MD 2012, Moldova
Tel: (22) 221 552.
Website: www.chamber.md