ROMANIA Trends and Developments Contributed by: Carina Vermeșan and Vincențiu Constantin, Andronic and Partners
ments reflect a broader process of adjustment and reform. Recent changes affecting the magistracy, including those relating to pension arrangements, have generated active debate within the legal com- munity and may influence medium-term dynamics in judicial capacity and retention. In this context, maintaining efficiency and predictabil- ity remains a central focus, with the courts continuing to play a pivotal role in delivering effective dispute resolution. Dispute Resolution – Current Trends and Evolution Recent data indicate that dispute resolution in Roma- nia continues to be marked by a consistently high volume of litigation and increasing complexity. At a structural level, the number of cases brought before the courts has followed an upward trajectory, reflect- ing a broader tendency towards the judicialisation of disputes driven by legislative developments, admin- istrative measures and public policies, particularly in matters involving public authorities. From a sectoral perspective, this trend is most visible in administrative and fiscal litigation, which continues to account for a significant share of the caseload, often involving challenges to regulatory measures and public bodies’ decisions. At the same time, insolvency-related disputes have become an increasingly prominent feature of the landscape, reflecting wider economic pressures and liquidity constraints across key industries. In practice, insolvency proceedings are frequently interconnected with contractual and enforcement disputes, particu- larly in sectors such as construction, infrastructure and supply chains. This has led to more complex, multi-layered proceedings requiring litigation strate- gies that balance recovery prospects with restructur- ing considerations. In parallel, there is a gradual shift towards the use of preventive restructuring mechanisms, signalling a growing emphasis on early intervention and financial stabilisation. The judiciary has demonstrated a notable capacity to adapt to increasing demand, supported by insti-
tutional efforts and the gradual integration of digital tools to enhance case management and efficiency. However, this sustained pressure has been reflected in longer timeframes for resolving disputes. Overall, recent developments suggest that Romania’s dispute resolution system remains active and func- tional, but operates under sustained pressure, with efficiency and predictability increasingly dependent on its ability to adapt to structural and institutional constraints. Investments – Current Trends and Market Dynamics Romania continues to position itself as an attractive destination for both foreign and domestic invest- ment, supported by its strategic geographic location, EU membership and access to substantial Europe- an funding instruments. Investment activity remains closely linked to large-scale infrastructure, energy and industrial projects, many of which are driven by EU programmes such as SAFE and broader European- level strategic initiatives. In recent years, investment flows have become increasingly concentrated in sectors of strategic importance, including energy, transport infrastruc- ture, defence and manufacturing. Romania’s role as a regional energy hub, particularly considering offshore developments in the Black Sea, continues to attract significant investor interest, while major infrastructure projects aim to enhance regional connectivity. At the same time, defence-related investments have gained momentum in the context of EU-level initiatives pro- moting industrial cooperation and capacity-building. The investment landscape is evolving within a more sophisticated regulatory framework. Romania has continued to refine its foreign direct investment (FDI) screening regime, a trend expected to accelerate fol- lowing the adoption of the new EU FDI Screening Reg- ulation in February 2026, which will replace Regulation (EU) 2019/452 and is to be implemented by Member States within an estimated 18-month period. The forthcoming regime signals a move towards greater harmonisation across EU Member States, while maintaining national jurisdiction in screening
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