Moldova strengthens energy security through EU-aligned oil stocks   

Moldova moves to Secure 90 Days of fuel reserves as key buffer against external supply shocks

On Friday, 26 June, the Moldovan parliament adopted an oil stocks obligation in line with EU standards (Directive 2009/119/EC). 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. It is the latest step in a deliberate and concerted effort to strengthen the country’s energy security and reduce its exposure to external supply shocks - a priority reinforced by the hard-won experience of the energy crises Moldova has faced in recent years.

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. 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. Central to successful implementation is a key institutional milestone: the creation of the Central Stockholding Entity by the Government, whose establishment will enable Moldova to respond swiftly in the event of supply crises or major disruptions to international energy markets.