Moldova–China Trade Boost: Ialoveni and Yiwu (Zhejiang) signed a cooperation deal to expand local administration, trade, education, culture and tourism, with plans to promote Ialoveni wines in Yiwu’s imported-products shops. Exports Watch: Moldova’s first-half exports topped 35 bln lei, led by sunflower seeds (4.9 bln) and wires/cables (4.7 bln), as customs digitalization targets faster clearance. EU Reform Momentum: Moldova implemented over 90% of its 2026 Growth Plan reform measures, clearing the way to request the third tranche of the Reform and Growth Facility (191.5 mln euros for 18 completed actions). Anti–Money Laundering Overhaul: Parliament adopted the AML National Program through 2030 and a 2026–2030 action plan, aiming to align with EU standards and tackle cash-heavy risks and weak enforcement. Local Governance: Voluntary community amalgamation ends July 31, with mandatory steps for smaller mayoralties from August. EU Social Security Link: Parliament approved second-reading integration into EU social security coordination, enabling electronic data exchange via EESSI. Transnistria Economy & IDs: EU remains the main export destination for Transnistria (76.9% of exports), while 366,830 people are registered on the left bank and Bender, mostly holding Moldovan citizenship. Business Expansion: Romanian fast-food chain Fryday plans about EUR 25 mln to open 10 more restaurants in 2026–2027 after launching in Moldova.