A few months ago, while analyzing official statistical data on the issuance of building permits during the first quarter of this year, I drew attention to an important detail: although there was an overall continued decline in the number of building permits issued, for the first time there was an increase in the number issued for residential buildings in the municipality of Chișinău — 14 permits, or 8.3%, more than during the same period last year. At the same time, the number of building permits for non-residential buildings remained at the same level. At the time, I wondered whether this was a trend or merely a temporary development. Now, with data for the first half of the year available, we can say with greater certainty that this is indeed a trend that is becoming increasingly pronounced.

Thus, in January–June 2026, according to data from the National Bureau of Statistics, 23 more building permits were issued for residential buildings in Chișinău than during the same period last year, an increase of 6.1%. The number of building permits for non-residential buildings also increased, by 8 permits (15.7%). An increase in permits for residential buildings was also recorded in the Central region — up by 31 (8.4%) — and, albeit insignificantly, in the Autonomous Territorial Unit of Gagauzia — up by two permits (2.5%). In the case of non-residential buildings, besides Chișinău, increases were recorded in the Northern region — up by 5 permits (6.1%) — and, again insignificantly, in the Autonomous Territorial Unit of Gagauzia — up by one permit (2%).

The largest declines were recorded in the issuance of building permits for residential buildings in the Southern region: 23 fewer permits (27.7%), and in building permits for non-residential buildings in the Central region: 49 fewer permits (32.5%).

If we look at the overall number of building permits issued during the first half of the current year, there was a decline of 0.5% compared with the same period last year. Specifically, in January–June 2026, 1,376 building permits were issued, including 1,034 permits for residential buildings (+3.0%) and 342 permits for non-residential buildings (-9.8%). Another indicator is also worth mentioning: in January–June 2026, compared with January–June 2025, the number of building permits issued for buildings in rural areas increased by 0.1%, while in urban areas it decreased by 1.2%. This is happening while Moldova is undergoing a fairly pronounced urbanization process alongside a major depopulation of rural areas.

Looking at the overall indicators, we can see that the downward trend in the number of building permits, which has been consistently recorded in recent years, is continuing. Over the past four years, we have seen persistent declines, with the sole exception of 2023, when this indicator registered a slight increase. From this perspective, 2025 was the worst year, when, for the first time in recent years, the number of building permits issued fell below 3,000, representing a 9% decrease compared with 2024.

In conclusion, it is encouraging that the number of building permits issued in Chișinău has started to increase, given that the greatest need for housing and commercial space is recorded there. However, the overall situation at the national level remains concerning. It would be a great pity if, at the end of the current year, it turns out that we have set a new negative record in this area, following the record low recorded in 2025.

Viorel Godea, General Director of construction company Lagmar