Moldovan-Japanese business forum in Chisinau: new investment opportunities
The Republic of Moldova and Japan are enhancing their economic relations. Following Moldova's participation in the Osaka Exhibition, a Business Forum and bilateral meetings took place in Chisinau. These events demonstrated both countries' commitment to strengthening economic and investment cooperation. The forum was attended by 50 Moldovan entrepreneurs from various sectors, including IT, agriculture, processing, and industry, as well as 20 representatives from Japanese companies.
Cătălin Babin manages a canning and vegetable processing factory in Mereni, Anenii Noi. He notes that a significant portion of the products are exported to the European Union, and he is also eager to collaborate with Japanese partners.
"I have previously met with colleagues from Japan, and they were impressed by the sweetness of our hot peppers. I am confident there is potential for Moldovan canned goods on the shelves of Japanese stores," says Cătălin Babin.
Other entrepreneurs share Cătălin's enthusiasm for establishing partnerships with Japanese companies.
"The companies I initially contacted in Japan are ready to take the first steps toward collaboration. This is because Moldova is moving toward European integration, which requires reforms and digitalization," explains Carolina Bugaian, director of a telecommunications company.
"I look forward to building new bridges of collaboration, exploring potential for cooperation, and developing new initiatives," states Oxana Paladiciuc, manager of a financial technology hub.
There are strong foundations for developing economic relations between Japan and the Republic of Moldova.
"I believe that the Republic of Moldova has immense potential. You are demonstrating this potential through rapid achievement. While you are focusing on a few key areas for economic development, there is also remarkable progress in the IT sector," observes Tanaka Kazuo, a professor at the Tokyo University of Electrocommunications.
"There are many Japanese companies with headquarters in Romania that also serve the Moldovan market. Following the September elections, which clarified the country's future direction, the interest of the Japanese business community in Moldova's economic development has increased significantly," emphasizes Yamada Yoichiro, the Japanese ambassador to Chisinau.
"We hope to attract more investors, foster cooperation in the future, and we do not rule out investments that could enhance the competitiveness of the national economy," states Sergiu Harea, president of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Republic of Moldova.
Currently, Japan supports projects in agriculture, health, education and local development in the Republic of Moldova. In the last four years alone, Japan's non-reimbursable assistance to our country amounted to 600 million lei. Also, compared to last year, trade between the Republic of Moldova and Japan increased by 19%, including higher sales of Moldovan wines on the Japanese market.
