Summary: KEY ISSUES Governance in the banking system remains poor and the condition of some large banks is fragile. The budget faces a tight financing situation, and—without corrective measures—the deficit is projected to widen significantly in 2015. Russia’s new restrictions on imports from Moldova are exacerbating the ongoing slowdown in activity, easing inflationary pressures, and weakening export performance. Discussions mainly focused on policies to address the significant risks in the banking sector, return to a path of fiscal consolidation, and boost potential growth and preserve external stability. Financial sector. The recommendations of the recent FSAP should be implemented, in particular regarding the enforcement of regulatory requirements. A plan to deal with weak banks needs to be developed. Fiscal policy. Returning to a path of fiscal consolidation, with a view to lower reliance on exceptionally high donor support over the medium term is important. This objective can be achieved by containing the budget deficit below 3 percent of GDP in 2015, gradually reducing it 1½ percent by 2018. Monetary policy. The supportive monetary policy stance should be maintained but the NBM should stand firm against pressures to facilitate its financing of the budget. Exchange rate movements driven by fundamentals should not be resisted. Structural reforms. Structural reforms are needed to boost potential output growth and reduce vulnerabilities. Strengthening external stability requires efforts to diversify export products and markets, and sources of financing.

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