Romania Extends Price Cap on Basic Food Products Until End of 2026

Romania's Chamber of Deputies has approved a bill to extend the capping of commercial markups on a range of basic food products until December 31, 2026. This measure, initially introduced to temper inflation, will continue to limit excessive price hikes for consumers. The legislation, which was previously passed by the Senate, now moves to the president for promulgation. The temporary measure specifically targets economic operators registered in Romania involved in import, intra-community trade, distribution, retail, and cash-and-carry activities. The law clarifies that it applies to all registered businesses, regardless of their organizational structure. Furthermore, the bill addresses commissions charged by issuers of meal, gift, and social vouchers. These issuers can now charge merchants a maximum commission of 2% for agricultural and food products purchased with these vouchers, whether they are issued electronically or on paper. The list of products subject to the markup cap includes frequently consumed staples such as plain white bread, cow's milk with 1.5% fat, loose sheep's cheese, plain cow's yogurt (up to 200g), white wheat flour (type 000), cornmeal, medium-sized chicken eggs, sunflower oil (up to two liters), and fresh chicken and pork. The measure also covers certain categories of vegetables and fruits sold loose, including tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, dried beans, carrots, bell peppers, capia peppers, garlic, apples, plums, pears, and table grapes. White sugar and loose white potatoes are also included. Authorities maintain that extending this price control is necessary to keep essential items affordable for the population, especially in light of ongoing inflationary pressures.