Answers for the Deposit System
Frequently asked questions about packaging return
Clear information for consumers, retailers, producers and importers about the 2 MDL deposit, eligible packaging, return points and the legal framework.
2 MDL
deposit recovered when returning eligible packaging
01
For consumers
What you need to know when buying a beverage and returning the empty packaging.
What is the Deposit Return System (DRS)?
DRS is the national system where you pay a deposit when buying a drink in an eligible container and get the deposit back when you return the empty container.
Why is DRS introduced in the Republic of Moldova?
The goal is to increase beverage packaging collection and recycling, reduce abandoned waste, and return clean materials to the circular economy.
What is the refundable 2 MDL deposit?
The deposit is 2 MDL for each eligible DRS container. It is fully refundable: the consumer pays it at purchase and recovers it upon returning an eligible container.
Is the 2 MDL deposit a tax?
No. The 2 MDL represents a refundable deposit. You pay it at purchase and recover it in full when returning an eligible container.
For which products is the deposit paid?
The deposit applies to beverages sold in registered and marked DRS packaging, within the limits established by law.
How do I recognize a product that is part of DRS?
Look for the DRS official mark on the packaging. It indicates that the packaging is registered in the system and that the deposit can be recovered upon return.
What types of packaging can be returned?
DRS applies to beverage packaging made of glass, plastic, or metal, with capacities from 0.1 L up to 3 L inclusive, if registered in the system and bearing the DRS mark.
What packaging volumes are accepted in DRS?
The general range for DRS packaging is from 0.1 liters to 3 liters inclusive, subject to conditions applicable to each packaging category.
Are PET plastic bottles accepted?
Yes, if the packaging is eligible, registered in DRS, and bears the system mark. Always check the mark on the container.
Are metal cans accepted?
Yes, if the packaging is eligible, registered in DRS, and bears the system mark. Always check the mark on the container.
Are glass bottles accepted?
Yes, if the packaging is eligible, registered in DRS, and bears the system mark. Always check the mark on the container.
Are jars, canned food tins, or non-beverage containers accepted?
No. DRS is designed for eligible beverage packaging only, not for food jars, cans, or other containers outside the beverage scope.
Are containers purchased outside the Republic of Moldova accepted?
No, unless they carry the official national DRS mark. Packaging can only be returned if registered and recognized in Moldova's DRS.
Where can I return DRS containers?
Eligible containers can be returned at participating return points across the DRS network (RVMs or manual points), regardless of where you bought the beverage.
Can I return containers to a different store than where I bought them?
Yes. Eligible containers can be returned to any participating return point across the DRS network, regardless of where they were purchased.
Do I need a fiscal receipt to return packaging?
No, a receipt is not required. Packaging is accepted based on its valid DRS mark and barcode.
How does a Reverse Vending Machine (RVM) work?
Insert containers one by one into the RVM. The machine verifies eligibility, counts accepted items, and prints a voucher/receipt to redeem your deposit.
How do I return containers at a manual collection point?
Hand over the clean, empty containers to the store staff. After verifying eligibility, the staff will refund your deposit in cash or according to the store's method.
Do I need to wash containers before returning them?
You do not need to wash them thoroughly, but they must be completely empty and reasonably clean with no residual liquid to ensure barcode readability.
Must the container be completely empty?
Yes. Before returning, ensure all liquid is emptied completely.
Can I crush or flatten PET bottles or cans before returning?
No. The container must keep its original shape undamaged so the RVM or staff can scan the barcode and verify dimensions.
Must I keep the label on the container?
Yes. The label and barcode must remain intact and legible for the container to be recognized.
What happens if the label or barcode is damaged?
The container must be identifiable. If the barcode or DRS mark cannot be read, the machine or cashier may refuse acceptance.
What should I do if the RVM does not recognize a marked bottle?
Check if the bottle is empty, uncrushed, and clean with barcode facing up. If it persists, ask store staff or report to Eco-Ret.
Why might a container be rejected at return?
A container may be rejected if it is not part of DRS, not empty, crushed/deformed, has an unreadable barcode, or is severely soiled.
Can I return a bottle without a cap?
Yes, but keeping the cap on is recommended as it gets recycled together and helps maintain bottle shape.
How many containers can I return at once?
There is no legal limit. However, at manual points or small stores, staff may process large volumes in batches.
How is the deposit refunded to the consumer?
At RVMs, you receive a voucher redeemable at checkout or for cash. At manual counters, you receive cash or a store voucher on the spot.
Can I use the voucher for shopping in the store?
Yes. The voucher issued by an RVM can be used as payment for purchases in that store.
Can I request cash instead of using the voucher for shopping?
Yes. By law, the consumer is entitled to receive the deposit in cash upon presenting the voucher at the store's cash register.
How long is an RVM voucher valid?
Vouchers are valid for 12 months from the date of issue in accordance with the regulatory framework.
Can I use a voucher in a different store than where it was issued?
Vouchers issued by an RVM are redeemed at the retail location or chain that issued them.
What if a store refuses to accept eligible containers?
Stores obligated by law to operate collection points must accept eligible containers. Violations can be reported to Eco-Ret Moldova.
What should I do if the RVM is full or out of order?
Inform store staff so they can empty/service the machine or offer alternative manual collection.
Do online beverage purchases include the deposit?
Yes. Beverages sold online in eligible packaging include the 2 MDL deposit and can be returned at any physical collection point.
Is the deposit charged for drinks consumed in restaurants/cafes?
For beverages consumed on-premises where packaging is retained by the establishment, the deposit is handled by the venue.
What if I take a beverage to go from a cafe/restaurant?
If sold to-go in an eligible container, the deposit applies and the packaging can be returned at any DRS collection point.
How does returning containers help the environment in Moldova?
DRS ensures clean, high-grade sorting of plastic, glass, and aluminum, preventing litter in parks, rivers, and landfills.
What happens to packaging after collection?
Containers are collected by Eco-Ret Moldova logistics, transported to regional counting/sorting centers, and sent to certified recyclers.
Where can I find the nearest return point?
Eco-Ret Moldova will provide a national interactive map of collection points on www.ecoretsda.md prior to full operational rollout.
Who administers the Deposit Return System in Moldova?
AO 'ECO-RET MOLDOVA' is the non-profit national administrator appointed by the Government under GD no. 379/2025.
What legislation governs DRS in Moldova?
Law no. 209/2016 on waste (art. 54¹-54⁴) and Government Decision no. 379/2025 on the Deposit Return System.
When does DRS become mandatory for all consumers?
System operational milestones and consumer launch dates will be publicly announced by Eco-Ret Moldova and the Ministry of Environment.
Where can I learn more about educational programs?
Educational campaigns, guides, and school materials are published in the 'Consumer' and 'Documents' sections on www.ecoretsda.md.
How can I contact Eco-Ret for consumer questions or assistance?
You can email [email protected], call +373 69 41 4444, or use the contact form on www.ecoretsda.md.
02
For retailers
Organization of return points, packaging handling and cost compensation.
Which retailers are required to participate in the DRS?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
How does a retailer register in the Eco-Ret system?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
What information must be submitted for each store/point of sale?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
Must each store in a retail chain be registered separately?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
What obligations does a retailer have when selling a beverage in DRS packaging?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
How must the 2 MDL deposit be displayed on the shelf, receipt, and POS system?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
Is the deposit included in the product price or shown separately?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
Which stores must organize packaging return points?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
When may manual collection be used?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
When is installation of an RVM recommended or required?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
Who purchases, finances, or operates the RVM?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
How is the appropriate RVM type and capacity determined for a store?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
What space, electricity, and internet requirements does an RVM have?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
Can an RVM be installed outside the store or in a separate kiosk?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
Who provides RVM maintenance and service?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
Which packaging must be accepted for return?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
May a retailer accept only packaging for products it sells?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
Is a purchase receipt required to return packaging?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
May damaged, deformed packaging or packaging without a readable label/barcode be refused?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
Must packaging be empty and clean before return?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
How is packaging eligibility verified at a manual return point?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
How is the 2 MDL deposit refunded to the consumer?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
Is the refund made in cash, by voucher, or by other methods?
Eco-Ret will apply the requirements of Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025. The practical retailer procedure, technical requirements and settlement rules relevant to this question will be published before go-live.
Can an RVM voucher be used only in the issuing store?
Eco-Ret will apply the requirements of Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025. The practical retailer procedure, technical requirements and settlement rules relevant to this question will be published before go-live.
What happens if a consumer does not redeem the voucher?
Eco-Ret will apply the requirements of Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025. The practical retailer procedure, technical requirements and settlement rules relevant to this question will be published before go-live.
How is the deposit refund handled at manual return points?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
What is the handling fee?
Eco-Ret will apply the requirements of Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025. The practical retailer procedure, technical requirements and settlement rules relevant to this question will be published before go-live.
Which retailer costs is the handling fee intended to cover?
Eco-Ret will apply the requirements of Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025. The practical retailer procedure, technical requirements and settlement rules relevant to this question will be published before go-live.
Does the handling fee differ between manual collection and RVM collection?
Eco-Ret will apply the requirements of Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025. The practical retailer procedure, technical requirements and settlement rules relevant to this question will be published before go-live.
How and when does Eco-Ret reimburse retailers for deposits refunded to consumers?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
How and when is the handling fee paid to the retailer?
Eco-Ret will apply the requirements of Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025. The practical retailer procedure, technical requirements and settlement rules relevant to this question will be published before go-live.
What documents are required for settlement with Eco-Ret?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
How are collected and refunded deposits treated for accounting and tax purposes?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
How is the handling fee treated for tax purposes?
Eco-Ret will apply the requirements of Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025. The practical retailer procedure, technical requirements and settlement rules relevant to this question will be published before go-live.
How should POS/ERP systems and cash registers be adapted for the DRS?
Eco-Ret will apply the requirements of Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025. The practical retailer procedure, technical requirements and settlement rules relevant to this question will be published before go-live.
What information must retailers report to Eco-Ret?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
Will reporting be automatic through RVMs, or will retailer reporting also be required?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
How are RVMs integrated with the Eco-Ret IT system?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
How should collected packaging be stored temporarily?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
Must returned packaging be separated by material at the return point?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
What requirements apply to bags, containers, seals, and labeling of logistics units?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
Who supplies the materials needed for collection and storage?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
Who collects returned packaging from stores?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
How is collection frequency determined?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
What should a retailer do if storage capacity is full before the scheduled pickup?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
How are discrepancies between reported and Eco-Ret-verified packaging counts handled?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
Who is responsible for collected packaging until Eco-Ret picks it up?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
What measures are required to prevent fraud and ineligible returns?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
What training should be provided to store staff?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
What information materials must be displayed at the point of sale and return point?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
Where can retailers find guides, forms, specifications, and documents?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
Where can retailers access workshops and training materials?
Eco-Ret will apply the requirements of Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025. The practical retailer procedure, technical requirements and settlement rules relevant to this question will be published before go-live.
How can Eco-Ret be contacted for operational, technical, financial, or legal support?
Eco-Ret will publish the detailed procedure and updated information on this topic before the DRS becomes operational. Until then, Law No. 209/2016 and Government Decision No. 379/2025 apply.
03
For producers and importers
Product registration, compliant labeling, reporting and system contributions.
Who is required to register in DRS: producer, importer, or both?
The obligation applies under Law no. 209/2016 and GD no. 379/2025. All economic operators placing beverages in eligible packaging on the Moldovan market (domestic producers and importers) must register.
How does a producer or importer register in DRS?
Registration is done through the portal provided by Eco-Ret Moldova. The application form, document list, and instructions are available on this dedicated page.
What documents and company details are required for registration?
Identification data (Company Name, IDNO, VAT code, legal address, contact persons) and packaging technical specifications are required.
Which packaging and beverages fall under DRS?
DRS applies to primary packaging for beverages made of glass, plastic, or metal, with capacities between 0.1 L and 3.0 L inclusive, registered and carrying the official DRS mark.
Which packaging and products are excluded from DRS?
Packaging outside 0.1L–3L, dairy products, edible oils, syrups, industrial packaging, and pouches/bag-in-box that do not retain shape are excluded.
What is the volume range for eligible DRS packaging?
The general volume range is from 0.1 liters up to 3.0 liters inclusive.
How is each SKU registered in the National Packaging Register?
Each SKU must be registered in the DRS database with its unique EAN barcode, beverage type, container material, color, weight, and volume before market placement.
What information must be provided for each EAN?
Product name, beverage category, material (PET, can, glass), volume (L), empty weight (g), dimensions, label layout, and barcode type.
What types of barcodes are accepted in DRS?
Standard GS1 barcodes (EAN-13, EAN-8) printed in accordance with GS1 General Specifications and ISO/IEC 15416 quality standards.
What are the technical requirements for barcode size, contrast, and placement?
Vertical ladder orientation is recommended, magnification 80%-115%, quiet zones intact, dark bars on white background, placed on smooth cylindrical surface.
What is the DRS mark and on which packages must it be applied?
The official DRS mark signifies that the product participates in the national system and carries a refundable 2 MDL deposit. It must be applied on all registered SKUs.
Where and how should the DRS mark be placed on the container or label?
It must be clearly visible, legible, indelible, and positioned without overlapping the barcode or critical legal texts.
Who grants the right to use the DRS mark?
The DRS Administrator (Eco-Ret Moldova) grants the right of use free of charge to registered producers and importers upon contract signing.
What graphic assets and specifications are provided for the DRS mark?
Eco-Ret provides the official brand book package, vector files (SVG, EPS, AI), and high-resolution PNGs with detailed clear space guidelines.
Must images, label layouts, and technical data sheets be sent to Eco-Ret?
Yes. Label layout (PDF), high-resolution packaging photo, and technical data are submitted during the SKU registration process.
Are physical packaging samples required for RVM validation testing?
Yes. Physical samples (empty containers with finalized printed labels) may be required for RVM scanner calibration and test bench validation.
How are new products launched after initial registration?
New SKUs must be submitted via the registration form and approved in the database before commercial distribution starts.
How do I update details for an already registered product?
Submit a change request in the system. Changes affecting barcode, weight, shape, or dimensions require re-validation.
What happens if packaging weight, volume, label, or EAN changes?
A change in critical parameters requires updating the packaging registry and, if necessary, re-testing in RVM test units.
When can a product be placed on the market after DRS registration?
Only after validation in the National DRS Registry and confirmation that labeling and deposit flows are fully set.
How are monthly volumes of packaging placed on the market reported?
Producers/importers submit monthly declarative reports via the IT platform by the 10th of each following month.
What is the monthly deadline for reporting?
By the 10th of the month following the reporting period.
How do I correct an erroneously submitted report?
Corrections are made through the official adjustment procedure in the IT platform with supporting documentation.
What is the deposit amount and who pays it to Eco-Ret?
The deposit is 2.00 MDL per container, transferred by the producer/importer to Eco-Ret for all units placed on the market.
What is the administration fee and how is it determined?
The administration fee covers operating costs of the national collection, logistics, and sorting infrastructure, calculated per unit material.
Does the administration fee vary by material, volume, or packaging type?
Yes, administration fees reflect the net costs of collecting and recycling each specific material (PET, metal, glass).
How and when are invoices issued by Eco-Ret?
Invoices for the administration fee are issued monthly based on validated volume declarations.
What are the payment deadlines to Eco-Ret?
Deposit and administration fee payments are due by the 25th of the month following the reporting period.
How is the DRS deposit treated for accounting and tax purposes?
The 2 MDL deposit is not part of the product sales price, is not subject to VAT, and is accounted for as a separate refundable guarantee liability.
How must the deposit be shown on commercial invoices?
The DRS guarantee must be stated as a distinct separate line item on fiscal invoices and receipts.
What obligations apply to importers of foreign products?
Importers bear identical responsibilities as domestic producers: company registration, packaging registry, DRS labeling, reporting, and fees.
Who within the company can access the Eco-Ret portal?
Designated authorized users with specific role-based permissions (reporting, finance, logistics, compliance).
How are commercial data and confidential information protected?
Eco-Ret adheres strictly to GDPR, confidentiality covenants, and uses enterprise-grade encrypted cloud infrastructure.
What audits and compliance checks can Eco-Ret perform?
Eco-Ret conducts routine reconciliations, barcode compliance checks, and cross-audits with customs and fiscal data as permitted by law.
Where can I find updated contracts, Excel forms, and technical guides?
All official forms, technical manuals, workshop slides, and contract templates are published in the 'Producers / Importers' section on www.ecoretsda.md.
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