Government considers expanding trading platforms and modernizing market with Romanian Commodities Exchange

The activities of the Romanian Commodities Exchange EST (BRM EST) and opportunities to expand trading to other product types were discussed by Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu and Minister of Energy Dorin Junghietu at a meeting with President of the Romanian Commodities Exchange Gabriel Purice, who was on an official visit to Chisinau.

The discussions focused on the evolution of BRM EAST in the Republic of Moldova, the achievements recorded, and future development prospects of the trading market, including the diversification of products traded through the platform.

Munteanu acknowledged BRM's contribution to liberalizing the natural gas market and enhancing the country's energy security, congratulating the company on its achievements in a relatively short period.

According to the presented data, in the three years since its launch, BRM EST has registered transactions worth over 650 million euros for natural gas, fuels, metals, and construction materials, with contributions to the state budget through taxes, VAT, and duties estimated at around 52 million euros.

Junghietu expressed interest in BRM's initiative to develop and operate a balancing platform for the natural gas transport system, which would align the Republic of Moldova with regional best practices and utilize international market benchmarks, such as TTF and other regional references, to increase transparency and ensure correct price formation.

At the same time, the parties analyzed the possibility of extending BRM's activities to other economic sectors, which could facilitate the use of standardized auction platforms even beyond the energy sector.

BRM EST was designated as the operator for the wholesale natural gas market by the National Energy Regulatory Agency for a period of 10 years. During 2024–2025, more than 35 participants were registered on the BRM platforms, and over 130 million cubic meters of natural gas were traded.