Moldova strengthens energy security through EU-aligned oil stocks

On 26 June, the Moldovan parliament adopted an oil stocks obligation in line with EU standards. The Law on the Security of Supply of Petroleum Products mandates that Moldova maintain petroleum product stocks equivalent to at least 90 days of net imports. 

In a press release published on 30 June, the Energy Community Secretariat called this decision “the latest step in a deliberate and concerted effort to strengthen the country’s energy security and reduce its exposure to external supply shocks”.

“On the one hand, the measure is a core regulatory achievement that positions the Energy Community Contracting Party for integration with the EU’s energy markets. At the same time – given its complete dependence on oil imports, with no domestic crude oil production or refining capacity – it will be key to protecting Moldova from external shocks, ensuring the continuity of fuel supplies to its economy and citizens,” the Energy Community Secretariat explained in a press release. “Given its current import dependence, such shocks could be particularly painful. Petroleum products account for more than 40% of Moldova’s primary energy consumption. Any external crisis, regional conflict or logistical disruption can therefore quickly affect domestic supply and prices, with a particularly acute impact on the transportation and agriculture sectors.” 

The new law is designed to change that. It adopts a hybrid model, splitting the storage obligation equally between a Central Stockholding Entity and companies importing oil products – thereby dividing responsibility between the state and the market. 

Implementation is planned to be phased in gradually, allowing storage infrastructure and the market to adapt in stages.

The Government of Moldova has also launched the Central Stockholding Entity, whose establishment will enable the country to respond swiftly in the event of supply crises or major disruptions to international energy markets.

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Press release