The transformation of Romania’s insurance market requires more than regulatory compliance - it also depends on trust, innovation and a stronger professional culture. These were some of the key messages delivered during the FIAR 2026 panel discussion titled “The New Architecture of the Insurance Market – Conduct, Innovation, Trust”.

Opening the debate, industry leaders emphasized that the Romanian market is entering a stage in which professionalism, transparency and technological adaptation are becoming essential conditions for sustainable growth.

Calin MATEI, CEO, GROUPAMA Asigurari, Romania pointed out that market conduct should no longer be seen only through the lens of supervision and regulation, but also as a competitive advantage. In his view, insurers that place transparency and customer trust at the center of their strategy will gain long-term stability and stronger customer loyalty.

Mihai TECAU, CEO, OMNIASIG VIG, Romania, stressed that the insurance industry is undergoing a deep transformation driven by digitalization, artificial intelligence and changing consumer expectations. However, he warned that technology alone cannot solve the market’s structural challenges unless companies also invest in professional standards and customer education.

The discussion also highlighted the role of trust in a market still affected by low insurance penetration and skepticism among consumers. Nicoleta RADU, CEO, PADROM Romania underlined that insurance companies must become more proactive in communicating the value of protection and in explaining the real role of insurance in society.

Another major theme was the increasing importance of cooperation between insurers, brokers, regulators and professional associations. As speakers noted, the complexity of today’s risks - from climate volatility to cyber threats - requires a more collaborative approach across the entire industry ecosystem.

Participants also referred to the impact of European regulatory changes, including stronger conduct supervision, digital resilience requirements and the growing focus on sustainability and customer protection. According to the speakers, adapting to these changes will require significant investments in processes, data quality and internal governance.

Adrian MARIN, CEO, GENERALI Romania, highlighted that innovation should not be understood only as technology implementation, but also as the ability to simplify products, improve accessibility and respond more effectively to customers’ real needs.

The panel further addressed the pressure generated by talent shortages and the need to attract younger professionals into the industry. Several speakers warned that maintaining high ethical standards and professional credibility is becoming increasingly important in preserving the attractiveness of insurance careers.

Artificial intelligence and automation were also identified as transformative forces for underwriting, claims handling and customer interaction. However, panelists agreed that human expertise and professional judgment will remain essential, especially in complex risks and sensitive customer situations. As Madalin ROSU, President, ASIROM VIG, Romania said, automation does not mean the dehumanization of processes — it is simply a way to simplify and accelerate procedures. The real transformation comes from the ability to identify genuine customer needs and the courage to develop products that move beyond traditional models. Technology is only a tool that supports this process.

The debate concluded with a common message: Romania’s insurance market has entered a new phase of development in which growth can no longer rely solely on compulsory motor insurance. Future progress will depend on diversification, technological adaptation, responsible conduct and the industry’s ability to rebuild public trust.

In this context, FIAR 2026 once again positioned itself as a key platform for dialogue between insurers, regulators, brokers and international market experts, focusing on the strategic challenges shaping the future of insurance in the region.