OECD Economic Surveys: Romania 2026

Romania has achieved impressive income and productivity convergence with OECD levels. Substantial EU funding continues to support investment and bolster long term growth. However, high inflation has eroded price competitiveness while significant fiscal deficits have raised concerns about debt sustainability. To achieve a more balanced growth, Romania needs to pursue fiscal consolidation by improving spending efficiency and broadening the tax base. Labour market participation remains low among low skilled youth, women, and older workers. Addressing these gaps calls for better education outcomes, more affordable childcare, and improved health to support longer working lives. Romania is also highly exposed to climate related risks. Adaptation efforts should accelerate, including better risk disclosure, stronger flood defences and broader insurance coverage. Finally, Romania has made strong progress in global trade integration. To deepen technology and knowledge spillovers and move further up the value chain, it will need to strengthen innovation, digital adoption, education quality, and business dynamism.