Rail freight left out in Romanian fuel subsidy scheme
The Romanian government approved a scheme worth 190 million lei (37,3 million euros) to compensate transport companies for the increase of excise duties on fuel. However, the initiative envisions support only for road freight, excluding the railways despite facing similar issues.
“This approach creates a competitive imbalance between transport modes and further challenges a strategic sector, which is already in a declining market”, said Victor Frasinoi, managing director at Rail Cargo Romania. Rail freight is in fact also affected by the increase in fuel costs and operational cost pressure, Frasinoi added.
The scheme approved by Romania exclusively targets road operators active in both freight and passenger transport, excluding public transport. The funds will be used to cover expenses undertaken between 1 October and 31 December 2025 and 1 January and 31 March 2026. For the first period, the amount available is 40 bani (around 0,08 euros) per litre of fuel purchased, while for the second one it will go up to 65 bani (0,13 euros) per litre.
