Business and Economy Review, no. 17

In January became publicly accessible the final data on foreign trade in 2006. The trade deficit reached the level of 1.6 billion USD, slightly higher that was estimated in Business and Economy Review no.16. For the first time in the last nine years, the galloping deficit growth stems not only from the rapid expansion of imports, but also from the exports’ compression. The growth of the weight of exports to the European Union is welcomed (35% relative to 29.7% in 2005), but not the absolute loss of positions on eastern markets. In 2007 the weight of exports to EU will exceed 52-54%, as a result of Romania’s and Bulgaria’s joining the EU. Speaking of the perspectives of Moldovan wines returning on the Russian market, they remain far away. The re-launching of the exports of animal and vegetal products to Russia inspires optimism, but a significant relief for the economy will come forth when the majority of the companies will be able to export.