Behave correctly: Trump "delighted" Sandu with new tariffs for Moldova

On the evening of July 9, US President Donald Trump wrote a letter to Moldovan President Maya Sandu in which he informed about new tariffs of 25% on all goods imported from Moldova.

It also warns that if Chisinau imposes retaliatory duties on American goods, Washington will additionally raise its duties by the same rate.

"From August 1, 2025, we will charge Moldova a duty of only 25% on all Moldovan goods imported into The United States, separately from all sectoral duties," the letter says.

At the same time, if Moldovan manufacturers produce goods in the States, duties will not apply to them.

"These tariffs can be changed in the direction of increase or decrease depending on our relations with your country. You will never be disappointed by the United States of America," Trump concluded.

Government The Republic of Moldova has already hastened to assure the American leader of its interest in maintaining stable trade relations with the United States based on partnership, mutual respect and balanced solutions.

At the same time, the Minister of Economic Development and Digitalization, Doina Nistor, said that the decision was made in the difficult context of world trade, and the government has taken the necessary steps to minimize the impact of changes in US trade policy. She added that national interests remain a priority for the authorities.

"So, in recent months we have held direct consultations with Moldovan exporters working in the American market, as well as diplomatic and technical discussions with the American authorities, including representatives of the US Trade Representative Office (USTR)," the official said.

The Deputy Prime Minister stressed that the authorities will continue their dialogue with the American authorities, as well as discussions with local manufacturers in order to identify the most viable options for maintaining competitiveness in the foreign market.

"In parallel, we are exploring alternative export markets, especially in the European Union, where three out of four Moldovan products are already being sent," Doina Nistor concluded.

The Ministry of Economic Development and Digitalization clarified that in recent months Moldovan exports to the United States have decreased by 40%.

Recall that in early April, US President Donald Trump announced the first wave of large-scale duties for 184 countries. For the EU, they amounted to 20%, and for Moldova 31%.