EBA organised a round table discussion with automotive industry representatives, where current challenges and development perspectives where discussed, and the launch of a new EBA committee was announced

On December 14, EBA organised a round table discussion, in cooperation with MIEPO and GIZ ("Economic Policy Advice to the Moldovan Government" Project), aimed at examining the challenges of companies in the automotive industry in Moldova. The meeting was also attended by representatives of the EU Delegation and the Economic Council of the Prime Minister. 

The EBA President underlined that the automotive industry in Moldova is one of the biggest importer and exporter in the country, creating thousands of jobs, thus stopping labour migration and accelerating the industrialization of the country. He added that their challenges can and should be adressed in the Economic Council. In the context of the meeting, the companies presented their opinions on human resource management, customs procedure, regulations and administration, tax code and tax administration, health, safety and environment regulations, permits and licenses, inspections and controls, infrastructure, and others. The companies reiterated that attracting investors is not enough. The state has to create better conditions, to retain these investors in the country, especially considering the competitivity of other countries in the region. An example would be the amendment to the Labour Code, which would offer more flexibility to companies. All the issues that were collected during the discussion will be reflected in an EBA Position Paper, which will then be presented to relevant authorities for consideration and necessary actions. 

At the end of the intense round of discussions, EBA announced the launching of a new committee – the Automotive Committee, which will be chaired by Draexalmaier.