CAEM Code: What It Is, Why It Matters, and How to Choose the Right One

Every company registered in the Republic of Moldova is assigned a CAEM code — a numeric identifier that describes its primary economic activity. While it may seem like a minor bureaucratic detail, choosing the right CAEM code directly influences your tax regime, licensing requirements, and how government institutions view your business.

What is CAEM-2?

CAEM-2 (Classifier of Economic Activities of Moldova, Revision 2) is the official system for coding economic activities, approved by BNS Order No. 28 of 07.05.2019. It is based on the European NACE Rev.2 and international ISIC Rev.4 classifications.

The classifier follows a hierarchical structure:

• 21 sections (letters A–U) — broad categories such as Agriculture, IT, Construction
• 88 divisions (2-digit codes) — sub-domains
• 272 groups (3-digit codes) — specializations
• 615 classes (4-digit codes) — the specific activity of the company

For example, code 62.01 means “Computer programming activities” and belongs to Section J — Information and Communication.

Why does the CAEM code matter?

1. Tax regime

Certain CAEM codes qualify for special tax regimes. IT sector companies (codes 62.xx and 63.xx) may apply for sector-specific tax benefits. Choosing the wrong code could mean missing out on these advantages.

2. Licenses and permits

Some economic activities require special licenses or permits. For example:

• Transport activities (codes 49.xx) require a transport license
• Financial services (codes 64.xx–66.xx) are regulated by the National Bank
• Medical activities (codes 86.xx) require sanitary authorization

If your CAEM code doesn’t match your actual activity, you risk fines or inability to obtain the necessary license.

3. Statistical reporting

The National Bureau of Statistics uses CAEM codes to generate economic reports. The correct code ensures your company is classified in the right sector.

4. Public procurement

In public tenders, your CAEM code is checked to confirm that your company has the competence to deliver the requested services. An inappropriate code can lead to disqualification.

How to choose the right CAEM code

Step 1: Identify your primary activity

Think about what your company will primarily do — not everything it could theoretically do. The primary CAEM code should reflect your main source of revenue.

Step 2: Search the classifier

Use our CAEM search tool to find the right code. You can search:

• By keywords (e.g., “programming”, “consulting”, “restaurant”)
• By numeric code (e.g., “62.01”, “6201”)
• By browsing categories from A to U

Step 3: Choose the correct level

Registration requires 4-digit codes (class level). For example, not “62” (which is just the division), but 62.01 — the specific activity.

Step 4: Add secondary activities

You can register multiple CAEM codes — one primary and several secondary. Secondary activities give you flexibility, but don’t overdo it: choose only those relevant to your actual business plans.

Common mistakes

Code too general. Some entrepreneurs select a group code (3 digits) instead of a class (4 digits). Registration requires the full code.

Code doesn’t match the activity. Choosing a code “at random” can create problems when obtaining licenses or during tax inspections.

Too many secondary codes. Adding dozens of secondary codes brings no benefit and may attract scrutiny from regulatory authorities.

Not updating the code. If your company’s activity changes, the CAEM code should be updated through the statutory documents amendment procedure.

Practical examples

Activity	CAEM Code	Section
Software development	62.01	J — Information and communication
Restaurant	56.10	I — Accommodation and food service
Online retail	47.91	G — Wholesale and retail trade
Management consulting	70.22	M — Professional activities
Freight transport	49.41	H — Transportation and storage
Hair salon	96.02	S — Other service activities

How we can help

Choosing the right CAEM code is just the first step. The DeschideCompanie team guides you through the entire registration process:

• Free consultation to select the right CAEM code
• Document preparation for registration with correct CAEM codes
• Filing submission to the Public Services Agency
• Post-registration support including CAEM code changes if needed

Don’t let a bureaucratic detail complicate your business. Contact us for a free consultation or explore the full classifier on our CAEM page.