Romanian Government Extends Key Agro-Food Measures to Protect Consumers and Farmers

During its latest meeting, the Romanian Government approved the Emergency Ordinance proposed by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, extending the application of two critical measures in the agro-food sector:

1️⃣ Cap on Retail Markups for Basic Food Products Extended Until September 30, 2025

The application of Emergency Ordinance no. 67/2023, which temporarily limits commercial markups on essential food items, has been extended for three more months, until September 30, 2025.

✅ Objective: To combat excessive food price increases and protect the purchasing power of low- and middle-income consumers.

2️⃣ Coordinated Response Mechanism for Ukrainian Agricultural Imports Extended Until December 31, 2025

The Government also extended Emergency Ordinance no. 84/2023, which establishes a coordinated consultation and reaction mechanism regarding agricultural imports from Ukraine.

✅ Objective: To preserve market stability and support Romanian farmers and processors affected by the surge in Ukrainian agricultural imports.

🗣️ Minister's Statement

“It is our responsibility to protect both Romanian farmers and consumers. The extension of the food markup cap is aimed at safeguarding the purchasing power of vulnerable groups.

Likewise, we are taking further steps to shield local farmers from uncontrolled imports from Ukraine by maintaining mandatory licensing requirements for such imports.

I urge all Romanian food processors to source raw materials from local farmers to strengthen national production,” said Florin-Ionuț Barbu, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development.

👥 Who is Affected?

The ordinance applies to all actors in the agro-food supply chain:

• Producers
• Processors
• Retailers

The measures are aligned with the European Pillar of Social Rights and are designed to support vulnerable social groups while reinforcing national food security and market balance.