Moldova Business Week 2025 is the country’s premier economic forum, held under the theme “Moldova is Open for Business.”

 This year’s edition focuses on industrialization and logistics, supported by the National Industrial Development Program—the first initiative of its kind to provide government-backed support for industrial investments. The agenda also includes Moldova’s role in Ukraine’s reconstruction, opportunities in IT, infrastructure and energy, as well as perspectives for sustainable growth.

As part of the business week, several sectoral forums will take place. One of them is the Moldova Real Estate Forum, where Ionuț Oprea will moderate one of the debates.

Ahead of the event, we spoke with Ionuț Oprea—a journalist with more than 15 years of experience in economic media, brand manager of Transilvania Business magazine and the guides Romania’s Real Estate Guides and Office, Logistic and Industrial Parks in Romania. Through articles, reports, and moderating international conferences such as the SEE Property Forum and EXPO Real, he has become one of the active voices documenting and connecting the logistics and real estate industry in the region.

How have discussions about logistics investments in the region changed since the start of the war in Ukraine?

There have been significant shifts. At first, there was caution and restraint. But as signs of stabilization appear, interest in Eastern Romania and the Republic of Moldova is increasing. Everyone wants to be prepared for the moment when Ukraine’s reconstruction begins.

At the same time, the pandemic, the relocation of production closer to consumer markets, and the reconfiguration of supply chains have accelerated investments in Central and Eastern Europe. The region’s advantages are clear: accessible land, well-prepared labor force, hardworking and educated people.

Is Moldova already seen as a potential logistics hub?

For now, it is viewed as a small market, still at an early stage. But there is interest, especially in the context of Ukraine’s future reconstruction. Companies from construction, energy, infrastructure, telecom, and retail are looking at Moldova, but their plans depend on clear conditions and long-term strategy.

What types of investors seem most attentive to Moldova?

Mainly regional developers. Large international funds think across multiple markets and plan projects with long horizons. For Moldova, it’s important that these dialogues continue and that agencies like Invest Moldova remain active and visible on the international stage.

How is the Romania–Moldova relationship perceived in this context?

Romania is Moldova’s main economic partner. This is where many opportunities start. I’ve already noticed the interest of Romanian companies wanting to explore the Moldovan market. And Moldova is doing the right things: participating in international fairs such as EXPO REAL in Munich, events in London and Bucharest. In many respects, the Invest Moldova team is even more active than agencies in Romania.

What lessons can Moldova learn from Romania and other countries in the region?

The successful models can be found in Poland, Czechia, and Hungary, where strong industrial and logistics parks have developed. The lessons are clear: infrastructure, a trained workforce, openness to investment, fiscal incentives, and local teams that constantly promote opportunities.

It took Romania years to build such an ecosystem. Moldova can learn directly from these experiences and gain time by skipping certain steps.

Can Romania and Moldova together become the “gateway” for Ukraine’s reconstruction?

I like this formulation, and I think it could become a strategic objective for both countries. Geographically and economically, it makes sense. It all depends on government cooperation and how effectively the private sector will work on both sides of the Prut. There are already conferences, official visits, and joint initiatives. We are on the right track.

How important are sustainability and ESG criteria?

Extremely important. In logistics and industrial parks, investors are increasingly asking about energy efficiency, renewable energy, digitalization, and social impact. Companies that do not align with these criteria risk losing clients and partners. In Moldova, the topic is only beginning to be discussed—but it’s an urgent step to take.

If you were to send a message to investors looking at Moldova, what would it be?

To look at Moldova with trust and enthusiasm. Interest is growing, and there are already companies analyzing the market. It all depends on their strategic appetite for risk and their willingness to explore new directions.

And a message for the Republic of Moldova itself?

To be as active and visible as possible. To communicate constantly, to show what it does well and what it plans for the future. In recent years, Moldova has participated more and more in international fairs and conferences—and it’s doing very well. It is important to continue on this path and to send the world a clear and coherent message.