As the economy shows signs of recovery, various sectors in Romania are anticipating growth in the coming months. According to recent estimates, managers across industries expect a notable increase in activity, indicating optimism about the future.
In the manufacturing sector, a cyclical balance of +12% suggests a moderate increase in activity, alongside a stable employment outlook with an anticipated increase of +5% in the number of employees. However, managers also foresee a significant rise in the prices of manufactured products, predicting an increase of +23% over the next three months. This duality of growth in activity but rising costs paints a complex picture for manufacturers.
Meanwhile, the construction industry is projected to experience even more robust growth. Estimates from April 2025 indicate a cyclical balance of +26% in production volume for the next three months, with managers expecting a moderate increase in employment of +9%. The prices for construction work are also expected to surge, with a cyclical balance of +36%. This uptick is likely fueled by ongoing infrastructure projects and a renewed demand for housing.
In the retail sector, managers anticipate a moderate increase in economic activity, reflected in a cyclical balance of +13%. The volume of orders to suppliers from commercial units is expected to rise by +20%. Retailers also predict an increase in employment by +8% and a significant rise in retail prices, with a cyclical balance of +36%. This trend suggests that consumers are beginning to spend more, despite rising costs.
Service providers are also optimistic, with expectations of a moderate increase in demand for services, indicated by a cyclical balance of +8%. While employment is expected to remain relatively stable with a +1% increase, managers predict a rise in service prices, with a cyclical balance of +18%. This reflects a growing confidence in the service sector, which has been recovering steadily.
The overall sentiment among managers across these sectors indicates a cautious optimism about the economy's trajectory. As businesses prepare for growth, the focus will likely be on navigating the challenges posed by rising costs while capitalizing on increasing demand.
In a related development, ING Bank Romania is set to host the "ING Explore" event in Timisoara on May 8, 2025, starting at 17:00 at Cowork Timisoara. This initiative aims to foster innovation and entrepreneurship within the Romanian business landscape.
Delia Olteanu, Head of Digital Sales and Partnerships at ING Bank Romania, stated, "Innovation is already in the DNA of entrepreneurial businesses, and access to knowledge and connections are key elements to reach new stages of development. Through ING Explore, together with experts and partners, we aim to contribute to transforming their potential for innovation and growth into successful businesses."
The Timisoara event will feature a panel discussion titled "AI in Business – Hype or Real Differentiator?" This session will provide local entrepreneurs with insights into how artificial intelligence can be utilized for efficiency and scaling. Following the panel, two workshops will focus on essential skills for entrepreneurs, including obtaining funding and conducting marketing activities.
Additionally, the event will conclude with an informal networking session, allowing entrepreneurs, investors, and mentors to interact and explore collaboration opportunities. This format is designed to facilitate valuable exchanges of information and foster relationships that can lead to successful partnerships.
The Timisoara gathering is the third in the ING Explore series, which is dedicated to developing the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Romania. The first two meetings took place in Bucharest and Brasov in March and April 2025, respectively. Future events are planned for Cluj, Iasi, and Oradea in the fall of 2025, illustrating ING's commitment to supporting local entrepreneurs.
As the economy recovers, events like ING Explore are vital for fostering innovation and collaboration among businesses. By connecting entrepreneurs with industry leaders and providing them with the tools they need to succeed, these initiatives contribute significantly to the growth of the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Romania.
Overall, the combination of optimistic forecasts across various sectors and initiatives like ING Explore suggests that Romania's economy is on a positive trajectory. With managers anticipating growth and events designed to support innovation, the coming months may prove to be pivotal for businesses navigating the post-pandemic landscape.
