The potential for developing medical tourism in the Republic of Moldova, opportunities to attract foreign patients, and measures needed to support the sector were discussed at a meeting between Prime Minister Vasile Tofan and representatives of the Medical Tourism Association.

The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of medical tourism as a sector with economic growth potential that can help attract investment, develop private healthcare services, and promote the Republic of Moldova in international markets.

“We need to develop new engines of economic growth. Medical tourism is a sector that has grown through private initiative and investment and has a competitive advantage. The state’s role is to facilitate this development, simplify procedures, and remove barriers that prevent businesses from expanding,” the Prime Minister stressed.

During the discussions, Association representatives outlined the sector’s development, investment projects, and the main challenges facing operators. Topics included simplifying accreditation procedures for medical institutions, facilitating the work of foreign specialists, improving access to the Republic of Moldova for international patients, and promoting medical services abroad.

The importance of transport infrastructure and related services, including accommodation and tourism, was also highlighted as a factor in making the Republic of Moldova more attractive as a destination for medical services.

Another topic concerned removing administrative barriers. The Government recently approved a red tape reduction package that eliminates more than 30 unnecessary regulatory requirements and simplifies procedures across several areas to facilitate business development. The Government will continue its dialogue with industry representatives and its deregulation efforts to create better conditions for the development of medical tourism in the Republic of Moldova.