According to a Eurostat report published in September 2025, Romania ranks 37% below the European Union average in terms of public investment in civil infrastructure relative to GDP. The largest gaps are recorded in local transport networks, water and sewage systems, and social infrastructure (health and education).

In 2024, Romania allocated approximately 1.9% of GDP to investments in civil infrastructure, while the EU average was 3.1%. Countries such as Poland, Portugal, and the Czech Republic exceeded 3.5%, benefiting from a high absorption of European funds.

Bottlenecks in project execution, excessive bureaucracy, and lack of administrative capacity are the main causes of delays and underfunding in Romania. The European Commission recommends simplifying approval procedures and strengthening the capacity of local authorities.

Within the framework of PNRR reforms, Romania has significant funds allocated for the development of basic infrastructure, yet the execution rate in 2025 is still below 40%, according to data from the Ministry of Investments and European Projects.

(Photo: Freepik)