According to the study by Euler Hermes, the automotive industry is one of the main pillars of the Romanian economy, employing over 150,000 people and contributing to 47% of exports in 2016.

In 2016, the automotive industry recorded an impressive growth rate, + 9% over 2015, and the global average advanced 1.6%. At this rate, there can be an increase of 6-7% per year by 2020.

Until now, the sector has been driven by automakers, where Dacia-Renault has ranked 11th at European level, with nearly 360,000 units in 2016. At present, most of the growth comes from auto parts manufacturers.

The suppliers market includes both own factories and numerous contractors, as well as small local entrepreneurs, who act like providers for the big producers.

2016 was one of the best in the last decade, with an increase in vehicle registrations of 17.4% to 510,000 units, of which new cars accounted for around 22% (115,000 units).

Also, the financial leasing market has increased by 25% in 2016, up to two billion euros, of which almost 77% are cars and light commercial vehicles.

The total turnover of the automotive sector in 2016 exceeded 20 billion euros, driven by exports, as the local market is relatively small and focuses on second-hand vehicles.