The shortage of skilled labor in the construction sector is reaching critical levels in 2025. According to INS data, Romania needs approximately 120,000 skilled workers to cover ongoing and planned projects, particularly in infrastructure and residential construction.

To address this challenge, the Government recently approved an emergency ordinance that facilitates the import of workers from Asia and expands tax incentives for employers in the sector. Companies can now benefit from additional deductions for professional training expenses and from an increased ceiling for hiring through partnerships with vocational schools.

In parallel, the Ministry of Labor launched in September 2025 a digital platform dedicated to workforce reconversion from other industries into construction, offering free courses and certifications recognized at the European level.

Although these measures have been welcomed by employers’ organizations, persistent issues remain concerning accommodation conditions, the linguistic integration of foreign workers, and the shortage of staff with experience in site management.

Representatives of the Romanian Construction Employers’ Association warn that the long-term solution is not only the import of workers but the development of a coherent national strategy for training and retaining skilled technical personnel.

(Photo: Freepik)