Romania's foreign direct investment projects set to rise by 16% in 2025

Romania is on track to register 109 foreign direct investment (FDI) projects in 2025, marking a significant increase of 16% compared to previous years. This growth is particularly noteworthy as Europe as a whole experiences a decline of 7% in FDI projects.

The job market is also benefiting from this investment surge, with jobs associated with these projects projected to grow by 39%, reaching a total of 5,710 positions. In contrast, Europe is facing a 25% decrease in job opportunities linked to foreign investments.

Among the new projects, 55% are expansions of existing operations, demonstrating confidence in Romania's economic landscape. The distribution of these investments includes 33 initiatives in production, 11 in logistics, 6 in business services, and 5 in research.

Market access and new clients remain the top motivation for foreign capital, accounting for 44% of the reasons investors choose Romania. Other significant factors include favorable tax conditions at 39%, opportunities in new technologies at 37%, and access to skilled labor, also at 37%.

Despite the positive outlook, challenges persist. Regulatory issues, inadequate infrastructure, administrative procedures, and underfunding contribute to gaps in project execution. While 41% of companies express a desire for allocations in business support services, these represent only 17% of actual projects.

Romania stands out in the region with the most diversified high-value base, outpacing its Balkan neighbors. While Bulgaria remains focused on agriculture and metals, Romania combines traditional production with exports of vehicles, electronics, machinery, and technology-based services.

Experts suggest that utilizing state aid could strengthen internal supply chains, automation, and digitalization. Additionally, the rising interest in artificial intelligence enhances Romania's attractiveness for 53% of respondents, while 44% highlight the need for optimal technological infrastructure.

As Romania transitions from cost-effective execution to a hybrid proposition, it aims to blend large-scale production with business services, research and development, digital infrastructure, and technology-intensive projects. The central evolution is the sophistication and diversification of investment proposals, keeping 2025 firmly focused on production.