러시아ㆍ유라시아

Economic output has been growing steadily. GDP grew by 4.5 per cent in 2017 supported by a favourable external economic environment and a recovery in household consumption. In the first half of 2018 growth continued at a similar pace.

Foreign investors have entered two systemically important banks. The recent acquisitions of a 39.2 per cent stake in Victoriabank and a 41.09 per cent stake in Moldova Agroindbank by fit and proper investors are steps towards transforming the banking sector. These also mark the first entries since 2007 of foreign bank investors into Moldova.

Recent business environment reforms include welcome improvements but have also raised concerns. New tax simplification and deregulation measures should contribute to a more enabling business environment, but an amnesty regarding previous offences may obstruct the administration of justice.