Moldova's energy minister says EU carbon tax limiting electricity exports

Moldova's energy minister has told EurActiv that the EU's carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM) is hampering the country's electricity export capacity at a critical time.

The climate levy is limiting Chisinau's ability to export power competitively as it seeks EU accession, according to the interview. Moldova, which relies partly on imported energy and faces Russian pressure, views the carbon tax as an obstacle to economic integration rather than climate progress.

The complaint highlights tensions between Brussels's climate ambitions and the concerns of candidate states seeking membership. CBAM imposes charges on carbon-intensive imports, effectively raising the cost of electricity from countries with lower carbon pricing. Moldova argues the mechanism disadvantages smaller economies transitioning toward EU standards.