Moldova plans administrative reform to reduce bureaucracy and restructure regions

The Moldovan government is pursuing a significant administrative reorganization aimed at reducing bureaucracy and public spending. As part of this initiative, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry (MAIA) plans to streamline its operations by reducing staff numbers while maintaining its existing institutions. Minister Eugeniu Osmochescu noted that while most subordinate institutions will remain, their workforce will be reduced. Notably, the Agency for Intervention and Payments in Agriculture (AIPA) will remain unchanged to ensure continued support for European integration and farmer payments.

Broadening the scope of the reform, the government proposes replacing the current 32 districts (raioane) with three larger regions. The proposed Northern Region would encompass 11 districts and include approximately 514,000 residents, with its headquarters located in Bălți.

The plan has elicited mixed reactions across the country. Supporters, including some local officials, argue that the current system is too fragmented and financially inefficient, and that the new structure will allow for better coordination and resource redirection toward urban centers. Conversely, critics express concern that the dissolution of districts could lead to reduced public services and less attention from authorities for certain local communities.