Moldova’s Tourism Growth Plan: Funding, Goals, EU Support - EXCLUSIVE
CE Report presents an exclusive interview conducted via email with Ana-Luiza Muravschi, Head of External Assistance Coordination at the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Moldova. The discussion sheds light on the Growth Plan for Tourism, developed by the Moldovan authorities in partnership with the European Union Delegation in Moldova.
Could you please specify the total budget allocated for the implementation of the Growth Plan and the main sources of funding?
The total budget allocated for the implementation of the Growth Plan (tourism component) amounts to 217,000,000 MDL, approximately 10,850,000 EUR. Of this amount, 250,000 EUR is provided from the State Budget, while the remaining funds are secured through the support of the Delegation of the European Union.
What concrete timeline has been set for the completion of the plan’s main objectives, particularly in the areas of infrastructure modernization and digitalization?
A detailed action plan has not yet been finalized. It is scheduled to be developed by December 2025 and will define the specific timeline for achieving the Plan’s main objectives, particularly in the areas of infrastructure modernization and digitalization.
How will small producers and rural entrepreneurs be selected or supported under the program - through grants, training, or partnerships?
Small producers, rural entrepreneurs, and tourism operators will be selected based on transparent criteria, such as business size, development potential, and willingness to participate in training activities. They will benefit from micro-grants for investment, professional training programs, and facilitated partnerships aimed at enhancing competitiveness and economic sustainability in rural areas, with a focus on agritourism development and promotion of local products.
Are there measurable indicators in place to evaluate the impact of these initiatives on local and regional economic development?
By December 2027, a strategic plan for diversifying the tourism offer will be implemented, ensuring a 30% increase in the number of tourists visiting Moldova compared to 2024 (baseline: 550,000 tourists in 2024).
By December 2027, at least six capacity-building, technical, and financial assistance programs for SMEs in tourism will be operational. The National Tourism Office (NTO) will implement at least three development programs aligned with the European Tourism Agenda 2030 (baseline: zero programs aligned in 2024).
Does the Ministry of Culture or the EU Delegation plan to expand cooperation in tourism-related education and professional training beyond 2025?
Yes, the Ministry of Culture intends to further expand cooperation in the field of tourism education and professional training beyond 2025. This will be achieved through the development of capacity-building programs based on a detailed assessment of SME needs in the tourism sector. The programs will include technical assistance aimed at supporting the transition toward green and sustainable practices.
Photo: Alex Prodan/Wikipedia
This interview was prepared by Julian Müller
