Premier discusses export barriers ahead visit to Moscow

Problems related to the barriers on the path of promoting Moldovan exports on the Russian market were the object of discussion at a meeting between Premier Vlad Filat and local producers who export their products to the Russian market. The meeting was organized ahead of the Premier’s visit to Moscow scheduled for September 10-12, reports Info-Prim Neo. According to a communique from the Government, the Premier and the producers discussed the certification of products, customs procedures, logistics and transportation. An additional topic of discussion was the protection of the intellectual property of Moldovan brands on the territory of the Russian Federation. The meeting participants included exporters of wine, textiles, transports and tobaccos, as well as those from the food industry and the industry of construction materials. “The Moscow visit agenda is heavily loaded. We will have the possibility to discuss in detail, with the Russian authorities, the problems that you face and will do our best in accelerating certain barriers that stand in the way of our exporters”, assured Vlad Filat. The head of the Executive mentioned that Russian recent integration to the World Trade Organization opens new opportunities for Moldovan producers, since several barriers to Moldovan exports will be eliminated, in accordance to Russia’s status as WTO member. “Moldova’s Government will actively contribute to this process, through a constructive dialogue with the Russian side. Meanwhile, it is extremely important that local producers place a great emphasis on the competitiveness of their exports, both quality- and price-wise”, concluded the Prime Minister. Special attention was given to the export of wines. Winemakers mentioned that the export of wines to Russia has a positive trend. “Wine exports have grown considerably as of recent, and at least one more customs terminal is necessary for the export process to get faster. Additionally, wine consumption on the home market also registers a positive trend”, highlighted Eugen Pislaru, director of the Salcuta wine factory. During his visit to Moscow, Vlad Filat will meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Filat’s counterpart Dmitri Medvedev, and other high-ranking officials.