The Romanian hospitality industry is facing a significant drop in consumption, reaching levels comparable to the second half of the pandemic, amid the current economic context and austerity measures, stated Irineu Darău, the interim Minister of Economy, Digitalization, Entrepreneurship, and Tourism, during a press conference held in Ploiești. Full data on the performance of the summer season will be centralized at the end of the summer, but market signals already indicate major revenue pressures on industry operators.
To counter these effects, the official supports the reintroduction of support measures during the budget rectification or the finalization of next year’s budget, reports Agerpres. The main proposed instruments include financial incentives for incoming tourism by rewarding operators who attract foreign tourists, as well as resuming the Kurzarbeit scheme to ensure flexibility in contracts and working hours across the sector.
In parallel, the ministry aims to operationalize the National Destination Management Organization (DMO) by the end of the year to coordinate international tourism promotion uniformly, and to introduce a digital accommodation registration form. This digital measure is designed to streamline administrative reporting, consolidate industry statistics, and increase tax compliance. Regarding the Black Sea coast, the minister urged local administrations to cooperate more strictly with the private sector regarding infrastructure and legal compliance in order to support sustainable development.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Romanian HoReCa sector facing difficulties?
The industry is experiencing a steep drop in consumption comparable to late pandemic levels, driven by economic pressures and austerity measures.
What support measures are proposed for tourism operators?
Proposals include financial incentives for incoming tourism operators attracting foreign visitors and the resumption of the Kurzarbeit scheme for labor flexibility.
What digitalization initiatives are planned for the sector?
The ministry plans to launch a digital accommodation form to improve reporting and tax compliance, alongside operationalizing a National Destination Management Organization.