State Secretary Vitalie Mîța participated in the panel discussion at the Forum “Liberalization of the Natural Gas Market in the Republic of Moldova,” organized by the National Agency for Energy Regulation (ANRE) and the Energy Community Secretariat under the project “Moldova Energy Independence and Resilience” (MEIR), funded by the European Union.

During the panel, the State Secretary emphasized that one of the Ministry of Energy’s main priorities for 2026 is to continue the liberalization of the natural gas market, with a focus on large consumers, who generate sufficient demand to attract new suppliers, create liquidity, and allow real market prices to form. The Ministry of Energy, together with ANRE, has implemented transparent and predictable mechanisms to provide suppliers with clear rules for access to the free market. Thanks to these efforts, Moldova’s natural gas market currently includes 14 active suppliers, transparent exchange-traded transactions, strategic reserves for energy security, and a robust infrastructure that allows connection and supply to large consumers.

Starting from 1 April 2026, over 200 large consumers will enter the free market, purchasing gas exclusively through bilateral contracts or via the Romanian Commodities Exchange – BRM East Energy. Non-household consumers with annual consumption between 10,000 and 100,000 m³ will enter the free market starting 1 April 2027. This will stimulate real competition, ensure fair prices, and give consumers the ability to choose their supplier.

“Bringing large consumers into the free market is essential for creating a functional, competitive market integrated into the European energy space. Through this process, Moldova ensures long-term stability, transparency, and tangible benefits for consumers and the economy,” said State Secretary Vitalie Mîța.

Moldova has all the components necessary for a mature and secure market: robust infrastructure, strategic reserves, transparent rules, and competitive suppliers. The liberalization and European integration process continues step by step, strengthening energy security and the competitiveness of the natural gas market.