Industry 4.0 versus Traditional Economy. Republic of Moldova Case Study

Signs of progress in the digitalization of economic processes over the past decades have led to the definition of the fourth industrial revolution called "Industry 4.0". In a context where countries of the world either implement the tools of Industry 4.0 in business or set out Industry 4.0 as a development strategy, we are concerned about the extent to which Republic Moldova economy is ready to implement new digital tools and informational challenges. The research aims to highlight the environment necessary for capitalizing on the innovations of Industry 4.0 to ensure sustainable development. The article examines international experience in the field of economy digitalization versus Republic Moldova experience, contains the analysis of the legal framework, the diagnosis of the economic indicators regarding the ICT implementation in the Moldovan economy, and international good practices in the field of Industry 4.0. The research was conducted within the State Program 20.80009.0807.22 Developing the circular economy mechanism for the Republic of Moldova.