The development of economic clusters, increasing business competitiveness, and strengthening cooperation with European partners were the main topics discussed at the second edition of the National Cluster Forum, held in Chișinău under the theme “Clusters as Drivers of Competitiveness.” The event brought together representatives of public authorities, the business community, universities, research institutions, and development partners to identify opportunities for collaboration and establish partnerships between clusters in the Republic of Moldova and their European counterparts, TRIBUNA reports.

Mihaela Gorban, Deputy Secretary General of the Ministry of Economic Development and Digitalization, highlighted the importance of regional cooperation in integrating Moldovan businesses into the European economy.

“European integration also means effectively connecting our businesses to the European economy. We want companies that develop sustainable trade relations, participate in joint innovation projects, and become reliable partners in regional and European value chains,” Mihaela Gorban stated.

In this context, cluster development represents a tool that enables businesses to make better use of opportunities for cooperation, innovation, and expansion into foreign markets.

Cristina Ceban, State Secretary at the Ministry of Economic Development and Digitalization, emphasized the role of these structures in enhancing economic competitiveness and unlocking the potential of businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

“Clusters offer businesses the opportunity to cooperate, develop new products and services, use modern technologies, and access larger markets. Our objective is to develop functional clusters capable of providing relevant services to their members and making a tangible contribution to the competitiveness of the economy,” Cristina Ceban emphasized.

To support this process, the Government’s Action Plan for 2026–2027 предусматри measures aimed at establishing a regulatory framework for cluster recognition, identifying value chains with development potential, developing support instruments, and promoting innovation, digitalization, and cooperation with European partners.