US State Department Report on Romania
Romania has a mixed investment climate, and American businesspeople are advised to undertake careful due diligence when considering any investment in the country, according to a report by the U.S. Department of State.
Sorin Iordan, 02.10.2026, 13:50
Romania has an open market, educated workforce, and a strategic geographic location, yet it faces challenges such as frequently changing laws, an unpredictable judicial system, and persistent, widespread corruption, according to a document titled “2026 Romania Investment Climate Statement,” made public by the U.S. State Department.
According to the report, Bucharest maintains a largely open investment regime and actively seeks to attract foreign direct investment. Membership in the European Union and NATO, competitive wages, and natural resources make the country attractive for companies seeking access to European markets, Washington says.
The document notes that while Romania is converging to EU income and productivity levels, macroeconomic vulnerabilities persist, particularly budget and current account deficit.
At the same time, the report highlights that shifting priorities among governing coalitions and fiscal consolidation measures contribute to a less predictable business climate. Nevertheless, the U.S. identifies opportunities for American investors in sectors such as IT, the automotive industry, energy, defence, manufacturing, food production, healthcare, and financial services.
The report also notes that Romania does not have a history of politically motivated damage to foreign investors’ projects or installations, and major civil disturbance is rare.
The workforce is large and skilled, with generally excellent English language skills and competitive wage levels across most sectors.
As regards the energy sector, the report describes it as particularly vulnerable to frequent and unexpected legislative changes, including tax-related ones, which can unpredictably alter the operating landscape for companies. As for corruption, the report describes it as an ongoing challenge, even though Romania has made significant progress in curbing it. U.S. investors have complained about corruption in both public administration and the business environment, most frequently citing customs services, municipal officials, and local financial authorities.
The U.S. State Department concludes that Romania continues to have a mixed investment climate and advises American businesspeople to conduct thorough due diligence, including consultations with competent legal experts, when considering an investment in the country.
The report comes at a time when Standard & Poor’s is set to announce Romania’s new credit rating, which assesses the country’s safety level for foreign investors. A favourable rating implies lower interest rates, stability, and reduced pressure on the public budget. Currently, Romania’s rating stands at BBB- with a negative outlook, the lowest tier within the investment-grade category. (AMP)
