MOLDOVAN AND ROMANIAN CUSTOMS SIGN AGREEMENT ON THREE CHECKPOINTS MODERNIZATION

In the framework of the Romania2019.eu forum, the Moldovan and Romanian customs authorities have signed a partnership agreement on the rehabilitation and modernization of three checkpoints: Sculeni-Sculeni, Leuseni-Albita and Giurgiulesti-Galat.

According to the Moldovan Customs Service press release, the project is planned for autumn 2019. The project is funded by the European Union (64.28%) and Governments of the two counties (35.72%) within the Moldova and Romania Joint Cooperation Program until 2020. The project budget is 10 million euros; half of the funds are accounted for Moldova.

The most significant reconstruction (70%) will be at the Sculeni-Sculeni checkpoint. The checkpoint was expanded by 1.3 hectares; this will increase the control lanes and upgrade the infrastructure. There will be three lanes for cars, two of heavy trucks and one for buses. The checkpoint will operate during the modernization period. The Moldovan authorities intend to build a new customs control zone near the checkpoint, at their own expense.

The Sculeni-Sculeni checkpoint is considered one of the most popular among carriers. Up to 2 thousand vehicles, including 250 trucks cross the border through this checkpoint every day. It is expected that its capacity will double after the reconstruction.