Romania 10 Faq

ROMANIA: 10 FAQ 1. What markets can I have access to if investing in Romania? Taking upon Romania means investors gaining access at the same time to both the unique EU market and Romania’s incredible domestic market opportunities, our country being strategically positioned at the cross roads of the traditional, commercial and energy routes connecting EU-27, Asia and the Balkans and ranking seventh (7th) in terms of population among EU states (21.7 million consumers)

2. What were the GDP growth and the levels of inflation and unemployment rates in 2008? Last year Romania registered a 7.1% GDP growth. In 2008, the inflation and unemployment rates reached 7.85% and 4.4%, respectively.

3. What is the level of the corporate tax? Romania has a 16% flat tax, one of the lowest levels employed by countries in CEE

4. What is the VAT level? Romania has a 19% VAT standard rate and a 9% reduced rate applicable to the supplies of certain goods/services as provided by the Romanian Fiscal Code

5. What is the minimum gross monthly wage in Romania? For 2009, the minimum gross wage per month in Romania is 600 RON, as according to National Committee for Prognosis estimations (approx. EUR 143)

6. What is the average number of students in Romania? There are approximately 717 thousand students in Romania, enrolled in 160 higher education institutions Source: National Institute for Statistics

7. What was the FDI evolution for the past years and what is Romania’s position within the region? Romania continues to be the first FDI recipient in South Eastern Europe, receiving high rates of FDI, as revealed by national banks reported figures. Ernst & Young European Attractiveness Survey - 2008, indicates Romania as top destination for new investment or expansion projects in South Eastern Europe Year FDI (EUR mil)

2000 2001 2002 2003 1147 1294 1212 1946

2004 2005 5183 5213

2006* 9059

2007 2008 7250 9084

Source: National Bank of Romania *Figures for 2006 included the EURO 2.2 billion coming from the privatization of BCR by Erste Bank.

8. What is the sector attracting most inward FDI and why? The sector attracting highest rates of FDI is industry, due to lower level of land price against other countries within the region, skilled labor force at competitive prices, as well as availability of the production capacities and tradition within the sector.

9. What incentives are provided for direct investments? Romania currently provides: carrying forward fiscal losses, local taxes incentives, subsidies on the unemployment insurance system and employment stimulation investment, incentives for economic growth support. Other incentives are provided by several state aid schemes.

10. What are the main advantages an industrial park can offer? The main advantages offered by an industrial park are: possibility to implement Greenfield and Brownfield projects; access to utilities; package of services offered by the park administration; exemption from paying land and building taxes.