At the beginning of December, the Orban Government announced the adoption of an emergency ordinance to grant non-reimbursable aid to companies in the tourism and HoReCa sectors, aimed at partially covering, in the amount of 20%, the loss in turnover suffered in 2020 compared to 2019.
In the first meeting of the new Government, Prime Minister Citu announced that, in fact, the ordinance had not been adopted as it required approvals; thus, on January 6, the new Executive announced that it had finally adopted the state aid scheme.
Simultaneously, through another emergency ordinance, the Government established that in the first three months of 2021, the HoReCa sector will be exempt from paying the specific tax. The duration of the state aid scheme is from the date of adoption until June 30, 2021.
In the case of HoReCa and tourism, the non-reimbursable aid is intended to partially cover the loss in turnover or volume, in the case of travel agencies, for the following types of issuers registered for tax purposes in Romania:
– licensed travel agencies operating according to CAEN codes 7911, 7912, 7990;
– classified tourist reception structures with accommodation functions, operating according to CAEN codes 5510, 5520, 5530, 5590;
– food service structures operating according to CAEN codes 5610, 5621, 5629, 5630.
The new Minister of Economy, Claudiu Nasui, pointed out that the scheme has a budget of EUR 500 million, but “without a single euro of European money,” with the ministry set to seek a financing solution from community funds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the value of the non-reimbursable aid?The aid represents 20% of the difference between the turnover achieved in 2019 and that in 2020.
Who are the eligible beneficiaries?Eligible entities include travel agencies, accommodation units, and restaurants/cafes with specific CAEN codes.
What other tax facilities were approved?The HoReCa sector is exempt from paying the specific tax for the first three months of 2021.