Health & Taxes: Moldova’s 2027 fiscal policy is out for public consultation, with Prime Minister Vasile Tofan saying the plan will shift the burden away from labor and toward “harmful habits” like tobacco, vaping, alcohol, gambling, and fireworks—while keeping VAT changes more moderate after backlash. VAT Details: Reduced VAT is set to stay for essentials (bread, dairy, medicines, etc.), with differentiated rates such as brynza at 8% and mozzarella at 12%, plus VAT thresholds for gas and electricity to protect households from April 1, 2027. Public Health Focus: Excise increases are proposed for cigarettes (+20%), heated tobacco (+15%), and nicotine e-liquids (+50%), alongside new excise for sugary and energy drinks and pyrotechnics (+25%). Medicine Supply Monitoring: Moldova will create a national Information System for Monitoring Medicine Stocks to track availability across manufacturers, importers, wholesalers, pharmacies, and hospitals and issue shortage alerts. Local Health & Environment: In Anenii Noi, residents protest a planned waste management center near forests and water sources, warning of pollution and health risks. Cross-border Justice for DNA: A draft law would let Moldovan law enforcement compare DNA results with EU databases using standardized markers, with strict data protection. Energy Stress: Moldova approved electricity and water consumption restrictions amid the regional crisis, including limits on exports during peak hours and tighter non-essential water use.