The article analyses the process of forming a circular economy as part of a gradual transition to a modern sustainable socio-economic development. It reports on the role of the circular economy in saving resources, minimizing waste and reducing pressure on the environment while achieving significant economic and social results. Particular attention is paid to the study of barriers to the development of a circular economy in the Republic of Moldova, as well as to the opportunities to move from the linear model of the economy to a circular one.