The lack of clear rules, activities carried out illegally and legislative delays that can cost years of stagnation are only some of the problems affecting the tourism industry in the Republic of Moldova, said participants in the public consultations on the amendment of the law on the organization and conduct of tourism activities. The meeting, organized by the Parliament’s commission on environment, climate and green transition, revealed the obstacles in the field and provided legislative solutions, IPN reports.

Among the pressing issues discussed was the lack of clear differentiation between travel agencies and tour operators in the certification process. Although their activities are distinct, both categories are subject to the same accreditation requirements, which creates confusion and difficulties in market regulation. It was proposed to adapt the Tourist Register so as to have clearer records of these entities and to prevent illicit activities in the field.

Representatives of the tourism sector stressed that the amendment of the law is a matter of urgency and any delay can postpone the application of the new regulations by up to two years. Specialists said that the current law must be adapted to the economic realities and the reforms must include essential elements, such as the holiday voucher, the tourist register and the digitization of tourist services.

Svetlana Cazac, president of the National Association of Business and Industrial Tourism "Pro Turism Moldova", accused the Ministry of Culture of abuses in the management of tourism policies. She noted that the marketing action plan included expenses that do not benefit the sector, while the real problems of the industry are ignored. At the same time, Cazac stressed the need for a new law adapted to European standards.

Another problem reported was the lack of updated statistical data on travel agencies, which favors tax evasion. During the public consultations, it was mentioned that many businesses operate illegally, from apartments to online platforms, without paying taxes or fees. For this reason, it was emphasized the need to urgently register all travel agencies and operators in order to combat the phenomenon of undeclared tourism.

Among the solutions proposed by the participants in the public consultations were the creation of a digitized system for monitoring tourism activities, clarifying the certification process for tour operators and travel agencies, as well as establishing correct tax policies for the development of the industry.