The Romanian government has announced fiscal measures to reduce the budget deficit, including an increase in the general VAT rate to 21% and the introduction of a reduced rate of 11% for certain products and services. This has raised concerns within the tourism sector.
Alin Burcea, President of the National Association of Tourism Agencies (ANAT), stated that these measures will negatively affect the purchasing power of the population, leading to decreased spending on services and tourism. ANAT estimates that domestic tourism has already decreased by 10-15% in 2024, and this downward trend could continue in 2025.
The government also plans to increase excise duties on alcohol, fuels, and tobacco by 10% and freeze the increase of pensions and public sector salaries in 2026. The tourism sector is facing significant challenges due to these fiscal changes.