Moldova introduces licensing for grain and oilseed imports until end-October

The Moldovan government has approved licensing requirements for grain and oilseed imports for two months, from September through October 31, 2026, with no possibility of extension. At the same time, the Cabinet rejected a proposal to keep the measure in place until the end of the year.

The licensing regime is intended to limit inflows of cheaper imported grain into the Moldovan market and support local farmers during the marketing of the new crop. Prime Minister Vasile Tofan acknowledged that the decision is a difficult one, as protecting grain producers also means higher raw material costs for other sectors of the economy.

In particular, higher domestic grain prices could weaken the competitiveness of Moldovan flour millers and bakers while increasing feed costs for livestock producers. Similar risks exist for the vegetable oil industry. The government is concerned that excessive restrictions could ultimately lead to higher imports of finished products, including flour, meat, dairy products and vegetable oils.

The introduction of licensing followed demands from Moldovan farmers, who had threatened protests. Their concerns intensified after Ukrainian cargoes were granted a 50% discount on rail transit through Moldova to Romania’s Port of Constanta. Local farmers fear that some Ukrainian grain could remain in Moldova, putting additional pressure on the domestic market and on Moldovan grain and oilseed exports to Romania.

The issue is particularly important for Moldova ahead of the arrival of a sizeable domestic crop. The country’s wheat production in 2026 is forecast at 1.55–1.58 mln tons, with an average yield of 4.8–5.2 t/ha. Moldova previously applied licensing requirements to grain and oilseed imports in 2024–2025 to protect domestic producers.

Tags: grain, oilseeds, imports, Moldova, licensing