Moldova’s Parliament has recently registered a new energy-friendly draft law, which plans to impose zero import tariffs on wind turbines to boost investment in renewable energy. The policy contains two core measures: full exemption from import duties on wind turbine equipment; and a maximum 20-month deferral of import payments. Projects completed and connected to the grid on schedule will enjoy complete tax and duty exemption.
The policy aims to fix Moldova’s unbalanced energy structure: solar power surplus during the daytime and reliance on expensive imported electricity at night, with energy storage regarded as a key supporting solution. If passed, some provisions will take effect immediately, and the tariff exemption will remain valid until July 1, 2028. The bill will be reviewed by parliamentary committees this week. At present, solar panels already enjoy zero import tariffs in Moldova.
Three Main Models of Global Zero-Tariff Policies for Wind Power
Global zero-tariff policies for wind turbine units and components mainly fall into three categories:
1. Unilateral General Zero-Tariff Policies
To accelerate energy transition and cut clean energy construction costs, some countries unilaterally grant duty-free access to wind power equipment imported globally or from major supplying nations.
UK: Starting April 1, 2026, import duties on 33 key offshore wind components will be scrapped, covering blades, power cables, tower accessories and more. Enterprises only need to prove the imported parts are exclusively for wind power manufacturing via the Authorised Use Scheme to qualify for exemption.
Cuba: Renewable energy products are exempted from tariffs until December 31, 2027, including over 180 tariff lines such as wind generators and components, applicable to both individual and corporate importers.
Vanuatu: Approved renewable energy projects may apply for exemptions from import duties and VAT on core wind generator components.
2. Reciprocal Zero-Tariff under Regional Free Trade Agreements (FTA)
Within free trade agreements or customs unions, wind power equipment complying with rules of origin enjoys mutual tariff exemption.
EU Internal Market: The 27 EU member states form a single market and customs union; wind turbines and components circulate freely duty-free across member states.
CPTPP Members: Wind power equipment traded among Japan, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, New Zealand, Canada and other CPTPP members generally applies zero tariffs.
Mexico’s FTA Partners: Under the USMCA and free trade deals with Chile, Colombia and other nations, wind turbines (HS Code 8502.31.01) that meet origin rules are subject to 0% import duty.
3. Preferential Tariffs for Specific Countries
Based on bilateral trade ties, preferential tariff rates are applied to wind power products exported from designated countries.
EU vs India: Under EU tariff rules, wind turbines and core components imported from India apply the MFN rate at 0%, while certain structural parts such as towers carry a tariff rate of around 2.5%.
