An analysis of the economic relations between Romania and the United States reveals a positive trend, presenting an opportunity that Romania should seize by committing to implementing a long-term vision and public policies that enhance its competitive advantages and foster confidence among investors and economic partners.

While the current public agenda focuses heavily on the urgency of corrective measures with immediate impact, in line with our previous public calls, AmCham Romania emphasizes the need to anchor economic decisions in a medium- and long-term reform and development agenda for Romania. We must not stop at short-term measures; on the contrary, we must initiate reforms that will lead to a sustainable framework, to maintaining Romania’s sovereign credit rating and, potentially, even upgrading it in the future. In AmCham’s view, strengthening Romania–U.S. economic relations has proven potential to be a long-term anchor for economic growth.

Data analyzed by AmCham Romania indicates that the positive development of economic relations, particularly favorable to Romania, is attributed to commitments made under the strategic partnership in security and defense. This progress is also linked to trade and capital investments, with significant activities noted in sectors such as information and communications technology (ICT), energy, automotive, and manufacturing.

“The American Chamber of Commerce in Romania is dedicated to strengthening economic ties with the United States as part of our mission on behalf of the entire business community we represent. Together with American companies, as well as our international and Romanian member firms, AmCham recognizes the benefits that Romania’s economy can reap by attracting more American investments. These benefits include increased capital, job creation, opportunities for developing human capital skills, knowledge transfer, integration of SMEs into global value chains, and enhanced competitiveness throughout the economy. In the context of the socio-economic pressures caused by the budget deficit and necessary corrective measures, we emphasize the importance of maintaining Romania's credibility as an attractive investment destination and trade partner for American capital, as well as for other investors. A sustainable approach to increasing budget revenues involves creating new jobs in the economy and fostering a business environment that encourages performance and innovation.  Among the proposals that AmCham has consistently recommended as fair, effective, and long-term solutions are the implementation of a uniform flat tax rate and the elimination of discretionary measures. These include the minimum turnover tax, the additional tax on oil and gas, and the special construction tax—all of which have a significant impact on industries that contribute to Romania’s export capabilities”, stated Vlad Boeriu, President of AmCham Romania.

With a total stock of USD 8.9 billion American investments in Romania, at the end of 2023 (latest available data),  the U.S. ranks 4th among the countries with the most significant investments in Romania and is the largest investor outside the European Union.

With a share of about 7% of the total foreign investment stock in Romania, the number of American companies operating in the country and the jobs they generate have steadily increased, surpassing 120,000.

“Romania has emerged as an appealing investment destination due to its attractive tax framework, a well-qualified workforce—particularly in the tech sector—and an expanding digital infrastructure. These competitive advantages must be reinforced by public policies that restore trust and create a predictable environment. Additionally, we need structural reforms to tackle the underlying causes of current imbalances, along with a clear timeline for long-term strategic investments and enhanced administrative capacity to expedite the implementation of complex projects. Efforts such as the digitalization of tax administration to minimize tax evasion, reforming the education system to ensure equitable access to relevant skills in an evolving economy, and reducing regional economic disparities through investment in essential infrastructure are all essential to making Romania a more attractive investment destination,” stated Cerasela Baiculescu, Vice President of AmCham Romania.

The Romania–U.S. trade structure is characterized by a balance of similar goods and services in both directions, highlighting the potential for Romania to prioritize further investment.

In 2024, Romanian goods exports to the United States were valued at USD 2.2 billion, representing 2.5% of the country's total exports. This positioned the U.S. as the 12th largest destination for Romanian exports. Nearly half of the export value came from industrial products, including machinery and transport equipment. Other significant categories include clothing, furniture, and instruments.

Imports of goods from the U.S.—which consist of similar product categories—have shown consistent growth over the past decade, reaching USD 1.3 billion in 2024, an amount that accounts for 1% of Romania's total imports.

Regarding service exports to the United States, we have observed a notable increase over the past decade, with figures reaching USD 3.4 billion in 2024. This represents over 8% of Romania's total service exports.

Service imports from the U.S. have experienced slower growth over the past two years. Currently valued at USD 1 billion, these imports account for 3.6% of Romania’s total imported services. The leading categories of services in both exports and imports highlight significant potential for growth in the IT and professional services sectors.

“In an increasingly competitive and complex global environment, Romania needs to clearly define its profile as a safe and stable investment destination that aligns with investors’ expectations. Our EU membership and the ongoing pursuit of OECD accession require us to adhere to high standards of governance, transparency, and institutional efficiency—principles that are non-negotiable for long-term investments. Additionally, the new U.S. trade policy introduces further complexities and requirements that Romania must navigate in conjunction with EU member states. Now, more than ever, we need coherent implementation of reforms and enhanced administrative capacity to tackle these challenges. This effort is not only about fulfilling international commitments; it is also crucial for modernizing and strengthening our economy,” emphasized Gabriela Popescu, Vice President of AmCham Romania.

The positive momentum in Romania–U.S. economic relations shows a significant untapped potential. AmCham Romania will continue to support initiatives that aim to unlock this potential by advocating for effective internal organization and promoting reforms and public policies. Our goal is to position Romania as an attractive destination for high-profile foreign investors.

“The current crisis is also a moment of reset, which must go beyond emergency interventions. Following the measures adopted to maintain Romania’s sovereign rating – essential not only economically, but also from a societal and security standpoint – we must urgently sit down and resume consultations and identify together necessary measures and actions and begin building around long-term goals and implementing the long overdue structural reforms,” concluded Vlad Boeriu, President of AmCham Romania.

Note:

The Romania–U.S. economic relations analysis cited in this press release is an internal AmCham Romania analysis, based on data from the National Bank of Romania (BNR), the National Institute of Statistics (INS), and Eurostat.

Read the statement in Romanian