Romania Country Summary

FATF Status

Romania is not on the FATF List of Countries that have been identified as having strategic AML deficiencies

Compliance with FATF Recommendations

The last follow-up Mutual Evaluation Report relating to the implementation of anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing standards in Romania was undertaken in 2025. According to that Evaluation, Romania was deemed Compliant for 7 and Largely Compliant for 18 of the FATF 40 Recommendations. It remains Highly Effective for 0 and Substantially Effective for 1 of the Effectiveness & Technical Compliance ratings.

Romania continues to grapple with significant challenges related to crime and corruption, despite making strides in its anti-corruption efforts. The country is a major source and destination for human trafficking, faces issues with organized crime, and struggles with illegal logging and counterfeit goods, while the judicial system's inefficiencies hinder effective prosecution of corruption cases.

Romania's economy is characterized by a strategic openness to foreign direct investment (FDI), particularly in sectors such as technology, automotive, energy, and services, bolstered by its EU membership and a well-educated workforce. Despite recent economic growth slowing to less than 1% in 2024 and inflation remaining above target levels, Romania is positioned to benefit from significant EU funding, which aims to enhance infrastructure, digitalization, and job creation through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan. However, challenges persist, including bureaucratic hurdles in accessing EU funds, a mixed investment climate marked by regulatory unpredictability, and ongoing labor shortages, particularly in skilled sectors, which potential investors should carefully consider.