World Bank cuts Romania's growth forecast for 2026

Business Forum
The World Bank revised down Romania's 2026 growth forecast to 1.3%, compared to the 1.9% predicted in June 2025 and 2.6% estimated in January 2025.  

The growth rate is expected to improve to 1.9% by 2027, though this remains below the 2.5% previously forecast.

Furthermore, Romania's economy grew by 0.8% last year, significantly below the 1.3% forecast in June and the 2.1% estimate from early 2025, according to the World Bank's latest Global Economic Prospects report published on Tuesday.

The bank noted that economic growth in Central Europe should improve to 2.6% in 2026-2027, supported by strong investments, particularly in Poland and Romania, thanks to increased EU funding.

However, the World Bank warned that fiscal challenges will persist, especially in Romania, where fiscal consolidation is expected to affect economic growth. The institution highlighted that whilst investments from EU funding will provide support, domestic fiscal pressures remain a concern.

Overall, the World Bank expects weak global economic growth of 2.6%, though it considers this a sign of resilience against trade tensions.

RECOMMENDED
Analysis: How is AI shaping the future of work in Romania
Economy

Analysis: How is AI shaping the future of work in Romania

Romania's labour market is undergoing a structural transformation as the country shifts from consumption-driven growth to a more technology-focused economy, with artificial intelligence and automation reshaping employment patterns.

Romanias budget deficit drops to 5.72% on 10 months
Economy

Romania's budget deficit drops to 5.72% on 10 months

Romania's consolidated general budget recorded a deficit of €21.8 billion (RON 108.87 billion) in the first ten months of 2025, representing 5.72% of GDP. This marks a decrease of €110 million compared to the same period in 2024, when the deficit stood at 6.22% of GDP.  

Romanian economy shows signs of recovery in Q3
Economy

Romanian economy shows signs of recovery in Q3

Romania's economy delivered a mild upside surprise in the third quarter, with flash estimates pointing to 1.6% annual growth, above expectations. However, the economy still contracted by 0.2% versus the previous quarter. After nine months of 2025, the economy is 0.8% above the same period of 2024, according to a report by ING Bank Romania.

RECOMMENDED FROM THE HOME PAGE
Helleniq Energy launches first Romanian solar parks
Energy

Helleniq Energy launches first Romanian solar parks

Helleniq Energy has completed two photovoltaic parks in southern Romania with a combined capacity of 58 MW, marking the company's first operational renewable energy assets in the country. The projects are part of a 2023 agreement with Metlen for developing four solar projects totalling 211 MW.

READ MORE
Business Forum  |  11 March, 2026 at 11:26 AM
Business Forum  |  11 March, 2026 at 8:02 AM