FMCG market in Romania - statistics & facts
Romania's Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) market reflects a dynamic landscape driven by various macro-categories. The country witnessed a high rise in inflation rates over two years, from a modest two percent in December 2020 to a peak of 16.8 percent in November 2022. Despite these fluctuations, in December 2024, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) dropped to 5.1 percent. Of all food products, fruits and vegetables suffered the highest price increase, more than coffee or any other product of animal origin.
In Romania's FMCG market, trade and sales dynamics reflect a mix of consumer preferences and international partnerships. Private labels, known for their lower advertising costs, usually offer products that are about 30 percent cheaper than other brands. Private label sales had the highest share among baby products and canned or frozen fruit and vegetables, accounting for half of the sold products.
The average Romanian consumed almost 47 kilograms of cabbage per year, which was by far the most popular vegetable option in 2024, and 31.5 kilograms of apples. Meat also had a significant presence in the diet—over 75 kilograms a year, roughly the weight of an average male adult.
In addition, the total value of apparel article exports exceeded 1.4 billion euros. Italy emerged as the primary trade partner in this sector. Conversely, the total value of imported footwear into Romania amounted to over 1.2 billion euros, reflecting a substantial surge of 41.7 percent since 2021. Once again, Italy played a pivotal role as the leading trade partner, with an import value of 252.9 million euros, closely followed by Poland.
Looking ahead, the FMCG market is expected to see continued expansion, particularly for sustainably produced and packaged goods, while inflationary pressures may still influence pricing trends.
Meat & private labels lead the way
The Romanian food market thrived in 2024, with companies generating revenue of approximately 46.7 billion U.S. dollars. The meat segment was the leading one, registering over 10 billion U.S. dollars in revenue, and it is predicted to increase by 30 percent by 2029.In Romania's FMCG market, trade and sales dynamics reflect a mix of consumer preferences and international partnerships. Private labels, known for their lower advertising costs, usually offer products that are about 30 percent cheaper than other brands. Private label sales had the highest share among baby products and canned or frozen fruit and vegetables, accounting for half of the sold products.
The average Romanian consumed almost 47 kilograms of cabbage per year, which was by far the most popular vegetable option in 2024, and 31.5 kilograms of apples. Meat also had a significant presence in the diet—over 75 kilograms a year, roughly the weight of an average male adult.
Romania's fashion partners - Italy and Poland
Romania's imports in the FMCG sector saw significant growth, with apparel articles worth over 1.1 billion euros in 2023, marking a 27.5 percent increase since 2021. Poland was the leading trade partner, with imports valued at over 203 million euros, followed by Italy and Spain.In addition, the total value of apparel article exports exceeded 1.4 billion euros. Italy emerged as the primary trade partner in this sector. Conversely, the total value of imported footwear into Romania amounted to over 1.2 billion euros, reflecting a substantial surge of 41.7 percent since 2021. Once again, Italy played a pivotal role as the leading trade partner, with an import value of 252.9 million euros, closely followed by Poland.
A competitive environment for dairy producers
Leading brands such as Hochland, Zuzu, and Napolact have a significant presence in the dairy market and similar levels of consumer reach. However, Danone Producție și Distribuție de Produse Alimentare leads the industry in terms of revenue, with 1.1 billion Romanian lei.Looking ahead, the FMCG market is expected to see continued expansion, particularly for sustainably produced and packaged goods, while inflationary pressures may still influence pricing trends.
