Moldova - Business CustomsMoldova - Business Customs
Given the fact that "business" in the Western sense is something new to the current generation of Moldovans, it is difficult to generalize about proper protocol and customs for doing business in Moldova. Though a new Western-oriented generation is beginning to emerge, the legacy of centralized authoritarian bureaucracy, red tape, and an unwillingness to take initiative persists. Signatures, proper letterhead, stamps of authenticity, and forms (in triplicate) are considered an important part of "getting the job done" in Moldova - a process which can test the patience of even the most experienced international businessperson.
Western business people should keep in mind that Moldovan business culture features widespread corruption and a constellation of well-connected local businessmen. For this reason, Moldovan business partners often believe the key to the success of an enterprise is not the soundness of the business plan, but access to influential individuals in government or business.
The form of business in Moldova often takes precedence over substance, making a U.S. partner's approach all the more important. The success of your deal may depend on the trust you have painstakingly built over many months or years.
A strong emphasis should be placed on cementing personal relationships before doing any business. Face-to-face meetings are the norm, with little business conducted over the telephone. Always be ready with a firm handshake to open and close a meeting. Moldovans take pride in their hospitality and may offer food and beverages at business meetings. To host a meeting without offering at least tea and coffee appears rude. It is considered an offense, if a guest refuses food or beverage the first time it is offered. Long evenings and multi-course meals, wine and cognac or vodka (moderation is advised) can be important in building trust with your Moldovan partner. Wishing good health, happiness, and success to your partner's immediate family will be certain to bring a smile and a hearty "thank you." Remembering your Moldovan partner's birthday and child's birthday, and keeping Moldovan holidays in mind are gestures not soon forgotten. Prepared by our U.S. Embassies abroad. With its network of 108 offices across the United States and in more than 75 countries, the U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce utilizes its global presence and international marketing expertise to help U.S. companies sell their products and services worldwide. Locate the U.S. Commercial Service trade specialist in the U.S. nearest you by visiting http://export.gov/usoffices.
Western business people should keep in mind that Moldovan business culture features widespread corruption and a constellation of well-connected local businessmen. For this reason, Moldovan business partners often believe the key to the success of an enterprise is not the soundness of the business plan, but access to influential individuals in government or business.
The form of business in Moldova often takes precedence over substance, making a U.S. partner's approach all the more important. The success of your deal may depend on the trust you have painstakingly built over many months or years.
A strong emphasis should be placed on cementing personal relationships before doing any business. Face-to-face meetings are the norm, with little business conducted over the telephone. Always be ready with a firm handshake to open and close a meeting. Moldovans take pride in their hospitality and may offer food and beverages at business meetings. To host a meeting without offering at least tea and coffee appears rude. It is considered an offense, if a guest refuses food or beverage the first time it is offered. Long evenings and multi-course meals, wine and cognac or vodka (moderation is advised) can be important in building trust with your Moldovan partner. Wishing good health, happiness, and success to your partner's immediate family will be certain to bring a smile and a hearty "thank you." Remembering your Moldovan partner's birthday and child's birthday, and keeping Moldovan holidays in mind are gestures not soon forgotten. Prepared by our U.S. Embassies abroad. With its network of 108 offices across the United States and in more than 75 countries, the U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce utilizes its global presence and international marketing expertise to help U.S. companies sell their products and services worldwide. Locate the U.S. Commercial Service trade specialist in the U.S. nearest you by visiting http://export.gov/usoffices.