The France-Republic of Moldova Business Forum unfolded on March 11, 2025, at the French capital, Paris, highlighting economic cooperation and investment opportunities between the two nations. Attended by Moldovan President Maia Sandu, the event organized by Business France attracted numerous participants, featuring round tables, discussions on economic topics such as energy, agriculture, and digital infrastructure, alongside B2B meetings.
Irina Tolstousov, vice-director of Invest Moldova, emphasized the importance of highlighting Moldova’s business climate and investment potentials to the international community. She noted, "80 percent of investments come from the European Union," underscoring the necessity for strategic partnerships to strengthen Moldova's economic foundations.
France ranks as Moldova’s eighth-largest international partner based on investment volume, reflecting its significance as both a trading partner and investment destination. Tolstousov pointed out Moldova's favorable geographical location, stating, "Delivery from Moldova to any point within the EU can occur within just two working days," which positions the country as an attractive option for European companies considering nearshoring opportunities both to Turkey and other Asian markets.
Moldova boasts free trade agreements with several entities, including the European Union, EFTA countries, Turkey, and the UK, facilitating the free movement of goods and services. "The favorable agreements we hold enable not just the trade of goods but also the optimized movement of people, which can significantly benefit French investors," Tolstousov added.
During the forum, the discussion on potential sectors for French investment was vibrant. Tolstousov highlighted key industries such as textiles, chemical and pharmaceutical sectors, electrical, automotive, construction materials, and the agro-food industry, all currently benefiting from the government’s new state aid scheme which offers 60 percent support on investments. This scheme allows entrepreneurs to recover as much as 75 percent of their investment, significantly lowering the financial barriers for entry.
“If we look closely, there are other sectors like IT and business process outsourcing (BPO) which also present attractive opportunities,” she articulated, referring to the innovations being cultivated within the Moldova Innovation Technology Park, where companies can benefit from a minimal 7 percent profit tax rate.
Despite the underlying geopolitical tensions, particularly with conflicts near its borders, Tolstousov remains optimistic about foreign investments, particularly from the tech and construction sectors as international interests evolve with regional dynamics. She stated, "The conflict brings challenges, but it also opens pathways to think about reconstruction. Many foresee Moldova as a base for future reconstruction efforts, especially considering the anticipated large-scale projects post-conflict.”
The role of the Moldovan diaspora, especially residing within France, was also addressed during the discussions at the forum. The Diaspora Invest initiative, aimed at leveraging the connections within the Moldovan diaspora, encourages such groups to partake actively as investors and partners with local businesses back home. Tolstousov mentioned, "We had successful engagements with our diaspora, discussing investment opportunities not only for business creation but also for fostering partnerships promoting local exports. We perceive significant interests from the diaspora to join efforts for economic growth within Moldova."
President Maia Sandu took the opportunity at the forum to reach out to French investors, encouraging them to view Moldova as viable for investment at this pivotal time. The Moldovan government is focused on enhancing conditions conducive for investors, with the aim of ensuring substantial returns on their investments alongside fostering sustainable economic growth.
Sandu stressed, "Engaging investors is fundamental for sustaining and advancing our national economic interests. We are committed to offering favorable conditions, fostering legal certainty, and ensuring streamlined processes for those willing to invest.”
The positive exchanges at the France-Republic of Moldova Business Forum reflect the mutual desire for collaboration between the two nations. With tangible support from the French government and investment opportunities laid out during the event, the path forward appears promising for enhanced economic ties and shared growth.