Chisinau, Moldova – On December 9, 2021, delegations from the United States and the Republic of Moldova met virtually for the fifth meeting of the United-States - Moldova Joint Commercial Commission (JCC) to reenergize the bilateral trade and investment relationship between the countries. The JCC presents an important opportunity to reaffirm our joint commitment to the principles that sustain a successful market-based economy – transparency, predictability, and the rule of law. The U.S. delegation was led by Mr. L. Daniel Mullaney, Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Europe and the Middle East, and the Moldovan delegation was led by Mr. Sergiu Gaibu, Minister of Economy.
Minister Gaibu and AUSTR Mullaney agreed that these meetings demonstrate the strength of the bilateral relationship and underline the commitment from both sides to expand bilateral trade, improve Moldova's investment climate, reform the economy, enhance economic security, and improve living standards for all Moldovans. To that end, the United States welcomed the reopening the Moldovan market for U.S. beef and looks forward to exploring new opportunities in the U.S. market for Moldovan goods.
Both sides also discussed existing tractor tariffs and Moldova committed to examine the possibility to eliminate those tariffs. The Moldovan side expressed its appreciation for the discussion between the delegations on opportunities to increase utilization of the Generalized System of Preferences, upon reauthorization, and the United States committed to examine the possibility of extending GSP to agricultural products with export potential proposed by the Moldovan side.
Reflecting the Biden/Harris Administration’s worker centric trade policy, the delegations discussed promoting internationally recognized worker rights with the aim of helping to create opportunities for decent work and enhance Moldova’s economic competitiveness. They also reviewed the benefits derived from strong intellectual property protection and enforcement, which are essential elements for stimulating innovation, economic growth, job creation and competitiveness. Moldova provided updates on the government’s efforts to address intellectual property issues, with a particular focus on enforcement.
Turning to the business environment, the delegates discussed Moldova's priority reforms to combat corruption, strengthen institutions and create a level playing field, as well as plans to implement the new investment screening mechanism. Both sides acknowledged the importance of transparency, predictability, and respect for the rule of law. Lastly, U.S. agencies provided updates on their assistance efforts in the region.
To strengthen the bilateral partnership and protect workers’ rights, the United States and Moldova will continue to engage in and promote bilateral dialogue to find concrete solutions to impediments to trade and investment and to further improve living standards for all Moldovans.
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