Government responds to protests and service disruptions
Moldova’s Ministry of Infrastructure has increased passenger transport tariffs following protests by carriers and the risk of widespread service disruptions.
After the Employers’ Association of Road Transport Operators (APOTA) warned that up to 80% of routes could be suspended, and cancellations began across the country, the ministry introduced higher fares. The government has already approved the decision.
Under the new rates, passengers will pay 87 bani per kilometre for inter-district travel, up from 75 bani, and 98 bani per kilometre for regional routes, compared with 85 bani previously.
Temporary measure amid broader challenges
The tariff increase has, for now, helped avoid a broader disruption of transport services. Authorities have described the measure as temporary, although the overall market situation remains uncertain.
The issue highlights ongoing structural challenges in the sector, particularly in the context of rising fuel costs. While the tariff adjustment addresses immediate pressures, longer-term solutions are still under discussion.
Debate over possible additional measures
Some opposition representatives have suggested alternative approaches, including reducing excise duties on fuel to ease the impact of higher prices.
Higher fuel prices have also led to increased excise revenues, prompting calls for part of these funds to be used to offset costs for consumers. However, the head of the Crisis Management Centre, Sergiu Diaconu, said such proposals would not be implemented.
