The Moldovan government has adopted amendments to the taxation code providing for a ban on manufacturing, import and sales of cigarettes if maximum retail price and manufacture date are not indicated on the packages.

Standards for marking are also specified in the decree, as well as penalties facing infringers. The move is expected to ensure governmental control of tobacco prices and is to be used as a basis for excise taxation, the business news agency, RosBusinessConsulting, has been informed by a Moldovan cabinet official. The new regulation is to take effect as of 1 January 2009. (vt)