Tourism fuels economic boom in Moldova's Trebujeni

Tourism has become one of the main drivers of the local economy in the commune of Trebujeni (Moldova), home to the Orheiul Vechi Cultural-Natural Reserve, with the sector's share of the local economy increasing from 10 percent in 2019 to 40–45 percent in 2025.

This is according to an analysis by regional and local development expert Ghenadie Ivașcenco, CE Report quotes MOLDPRES.

The analysis shows that around 110–120 people are employed in tourism and related sectors, accounting for approximately 45 percent of all jobs available in the commune. Meanwhile, the local budget has nearly tripled, and around 29 million Moldovan lei have been invested in public infrastructure.

According to the report, Orheiul Vechi has evolved beyond being Moldova's best-known tourist destination and now serves as an example of how cultural and natural heritage can drive economic development, support local businesses and create new opportunities for the community.

The expert noted that this progress has also been fueled by extensive national and international promotion through tourism fairs, marketing campaigns and projects carried out in partnership with public institutions and development partners.

Investments in tourism and cultural infrastructure have further enhanced the area's appeal. In recent years, several heritage sites within the Orheiul Vechi Cultural-Natural Reserve have been restored and promoted, including the medieval Tatar bathhouse. The historic cobblestone road has been uncovered, new tourist routes have been developed, access to the Butuceni Promontory has been improved, and three traditional vernacular houses have been restored to preserve local heritage and enrich the visitor experience.

Another key factor has been the cooperation between public authorities, the administration of the Orheiul Vechi Cultural-Natural Reserve, tourism businesses, local producers and development partners, helping expand infrastructure and diversify the region's tourism offering.

For the 2026–2030 period, the expert recommends retaining a larger share of tourism-generated income within the local community, creating more formal jobs, making full use of investment funds, integrating more local businesses into the tourism value chain and addressing demographic decline.

Photo: Wikipedia