Tax difficulties in the US, problems with the restructuring of some EU countries’ debts, all kind of world turbulences could affect Moldova’s economic growth, says Alex Oprunenco, analyst of Expert-Grup Center, quoted by Info-Prim Neo. “50% of Moldova’s exports are destined for the EU and considering the problems of some partner countries, the demand for Moldovan goods could drop. The internal demand could drop as well, as it is mostly based on remittances”, thinks Alex Oprunenco. He doesn’t rule out a new crisis caused by these factors. Veaceslav Ionita, head of the parliamentary commission for economy, budget and finances, shares his fears, but assured that Moldova’s current situation was much better than in 2009, when the financial situation was disastrous, the budget deficit huge and the relationship with foreign trade partners rather tense. This year’s budget and the budget to be approved for 2012 are realistic, austere, and the public money is managed according to clear principles. No money is spent on anything else but priority domains, says the parliamentarian. “A normal question raised by this situation is how Moldova can react to challenges that don’t depend on the political or economic situation in Moldova”, stressed Tokhir Mirzoev, representative of the International Monetary Fund in Moldova. “Of course, reducing social expenditure would be a tool, but the people’s income is low already. All the expenses must be revised, perhaps there are projects that aren’t urgent or actual. Besides, the started reforms must be carried out, especially the fiscal reform. Moldova must improve its tax management and reduce dependence on foreign funding”, he said. However, Tokhir Mirzoev agrees that Moldova is better prepared to face such challenges than in 2009. “Public finances are OK, the banking system has enough liquidity. The percentage of non-performing loans is decreasing and the currency reserve has increased significantly (about $2 billion)”, said Tokhir Mirzoev.