The European Women’s Business Association (PEFA), in partnership with the Craiova City Hall, organized a new edition of the Business Outlook 2026 conference series in Craiova under the theme “Investments and Sustainable Development.”

The event brought together entrepreneurs, business representatives, local officials, and experts in investment and regional development in a setting dedicated to constructive dialogue and identifying concrete opportunities for sustainable economic growth in the Oltenia region.

At the center of the discussions were the incentives offered by local public authorities to investors — from simplifying administrative procedures and providing access to land and infrastructure, to tax incentives and support programs for companies choosing to invest in Craiova and its metropolitan area.

The Mayor of Craiova, Lia Olguța Vasilescu, emphasized the local administration’s commitment to creating an attractive and predictable investment environment:

“Craiova wants investments, and I believe it can attract them because it currently offers the greatest facilities for companies wishing to relocate here — facilities that do not exist anywhere else in Romania, and even in Europe.
In our industrial parks, utilities are connected right up to the factory gate, and the land is almost free — we could not offer it entirely free because European Union regulations do not allow it, but the price is one euro cent per square meter.
In addition, local taxes are zero, and de minimis aid amounts to €250,000. Practically speaking, an investor who wants to develop a business in Craiova benefits from absolutely all the conditions they could ask for, especially nearly free land.”

PEFA – A Driver of Public-Private Dialogue

The Business Outlook 2026 – Craiova conference is part of a national project initiated by PEFA as part of the organization’s commitment to building strong bridges between entrepreneurs and public decision-makers.

Andreea Negru highlighted the importance of this type of event for Romania’s business ecosystem:

“Business Outlook 2026 is not just a series of conferences — it is a platform for action. We strongly believe that dialogue between the private sector and local public authorities is the only way to transform opportunities into reality. Craiova welcomed us openly, and the partnership with the City Hall demonstrated that there is genuine political will to support investors. This is exactly the model we propose for the whole of Romania.”

Business Outlook Continues Across Romania

The Business Outlook 2026 conference series will continue beyond Craiova. PEFA has committed to expanding the project nationwide, with new editions scheduled in other major economic centers across the country in the coming months.

Lorena Stoian outlined the project’s future direction:

“Business Outlook is a living project that grows together with the needs of Romania’s business communities. Every city has its own profile, and every region has its own challenges and opportunities — and we want to be there to listen, connect, and catalyze. We are continuing this journey because Romania needs more dialogue and more action. We invite local authorities from across the country to join us in this mission.”