On July 25, 2025, Romania enacted Law No. 141, introducing major fiscal and budgetary reforms. The most notable changes include increases to the VAT, excise duties, and dividend tax rates, along with various updates affecting individuals and businesses.
VAT Changes in Romania effective August 1, 2025
The standard VAT rate increases from 19% to 21%. As the existing reduced VAT rates of 5% and 9% are eliminated, a single reduced VAT rate of 11% will apply to select goods and services, including:
- Human-use medicines
- Basic food and non-alcoholic beverages (with exceptions)
- Agricultural water supply and inputs (fertilizers, pesticides)
- Educational materials (books, newspapers)
- Cultural and public service access (museums, zoos, etc.)
- Firewood and winter heating
- Social housing, accommodations, restaurants, and catering (excluding alcoholic beverages)
Some goods and services will now be taxed at the full 21% rate, such as:
- Installation of renewable energy systems for homes
- Access to fairs, cinemas, sports and cultural events
- Certain housing transactions, with transitional 9% VAT rates applicable until 31 July 2026 if specific conditions are met
Services and supplies that were previously VAT-exempt (e.g., free hospital construction by nonprofits or medical equipment donations) will also now be taxed at 21%.
Excise Duties increase in Romania
From August 1, 2025, excise taxes will rise by an average of 10% across many categories, including:
- Fuel (gasoline, diesel)
- Alcohol, beer, wine, and sugary non-alcoholic drinks
Additionally, new excise duties will be introduced for:
- Still wines and ciders (from 0 to 10 RON/hl)
- Nicotine and non-nicotine liquids (gradually rising through 2026)
Next steps for Businesses and Individuals in Romania
These sweeping changes, particularly around VAT, excise duties, and dividend taxes, may have major compliance and cost implications. Affected entities should review their pricing, contracts, and tax planning strategies ahead of the upcoming effective dates.
Eurotax gives you the latest information about indirect tax changes in the EU, do not hesitate to contact us here for more information. You can also visit our dedicated pages for VAT and excise duties. You can find a VAT guide for Romania here.
