The new taxes for restaurants and hotels to be applied starting next year have received a favorable opinion from the senators of the economic, industrial, and services committee. They are to be analyzed by the budget committee and then sent for a final vote to the Senate and, subsequently, the Chamber of Deputies.
The Legislative Council also issued a favorable opinion, though it recommended that lawmakers analyze whether introducing new taxes only for companies performing certain activities violates Constitutional provisions, which state that the state must ensure fair competition in trade.
However, the parliamentarians drafted a document ensuring that the future taxes comply with constitutional principles and norms.
Starting next year, restaurants, pizzerias, and shaorma shops in central Bucharest will pay an annual tax starting from over 11,000 RON for units with an area of up to 30 sqm, and exceeding 38,000 RON for very large units of over 800 sqm. Comparable amounts will be paid by establishments in the centers of other major cities, such as Brasov, Constanta, and Cluj-Napoca.
For bars and nightclubs, the lowest annual tax in Bucharest will exceed 5,300 RON, while in resorts, there will be differentiated taxes between the seaside and mountain areas.
At the same time, a 1 or 2-star hotel in central Bucharest will pay, starting next year, an annual tax of 223 RON per bed, while a 5-star hotel will pay 891 RON per bed.
Taxes for hotels in other cities will start from 135 RON per bed and reach approximately 580-650 RON per bed.
Guesthouses in cities will be taxed approximately 100 RON less, taxes in tourist resorts will be lower, while 3-5 star hotels on the outskirts of small towns will pay more than those in municipalities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the new taxes for restaurants in Bucharest?
Annual taxes will range from 11,000 RON for units under 30 sqm to over 38,000 RON for large establishments exceeding 800 sqm.
How will hotels be taxed starting next year?
Hotels will be taxed per accommodation spot (bed), with rates in Bucharest ranging from 223 RON for 1-2 star hotels to 891 RON for 5-star hotels.
Are there constitutional concerns regarding these taxes?
The Legislative Council raised concerns regarding fair competition, but lawmakers have drafted a document asserting that the new taxes comply with constitutional norms.