Moldova to impose VAT on international online purchases
Starting October 1, Moldova will begin levying a 20% value-added tax (VAT) on all purchases made by citizens on foreign online marketplaces. The aim of this decision is to protect domestic producers and standardize tax rules.
The Moldovan government explains that the new rules do not introduce an additional tax but effectively mean the elimination of tax exemptions for imports from abroad.
Previously, there were exemptions for packages valued at up to €150, but these were eliminated due to the growth in international online trade.
Following the changes, all goods arriving from abroad will be subject to the standard 20% VAT rate, without additional customs or bureaucratic fees.
The government emphasizes that this should ensure a level playing field for local businesses that pay taxes and create jobs.
“We are harming our economy because we are leaving loopholes that are unfair to local businesses… It is unacceptable for some to pay while others do not,” stated Moldova’s Minister of Finance.
The Ministry of Finance assures that the introduction of VAT will not necessarily lead to an automatic 20% price increase, as international platforms may partially offset the tax burden.
The decision aligns with Moldova’s course toward harmonizing tax legislation with European standards. Ukraine has previously implemented similar approaches to e-commerce taxation, which is viewed as part of a broader tax reform on the path to European integration.
This was reported by NewsMaker.
The updated draft laws on the taxation of international parcels may affect not only purchase prices but also the postal services market.
Due to the VAT exemption for international shipments valued at up to €150, the Ukrainian budget could lose approximately 27 billion hryvnia in 2026.
