INNOVATION AS A SOURCE OF COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE OF THE REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA

In this paper, we conducted a theoretical and applied research of the place of innovation in the development of a country, through highlighting the ways of ensuring the country competitiveness. Thus, we can mention that we started this research by going through the theoretical approaches of innovation, of factors that contribute to the formation of an economy based on innovation. Later, we researched the statistical data on the position of Moldova in terms of innovation, patent applications. We also researched the most innovative countries in the world. The research methodology was focused on use of the following methods: analysis, synthesis, induction, deduction, logical method. All these methods have contributed to promoting the research and highlighting the most important milestones of the research. In conclusion, we can mention that the Republic of Moldova needs to strengthen its efforts regarding the transformation of innovations into new innovative products, into patent applications filed. This will positively influence the dynamics of the country development and will accelerate the process of increasing the competitiveness of the country.