After several years marked by veterinary restrictions and commercial losses, Romania’s meat exports are showing clear signs of recovery.

According to Eurostat (2025), export volumes increased by 11% compared to 2024, reaching a total value of €590 million. The dominant segment remains poultry meat (60%), followed by pork and beef.

Romania exports primarily to EU member states — Bulgaria, Greece, Italy, and Germany — but also to emerging markets in the Middle East. The European Commission (DG AGRI, Outlook 2025) notes that the recovery in trade has been supported by rising regional demand and lower feed prices.

However, challenges persist. The National Sanitary Veterinary and Food Safety Authority (ANSVSA) reports that many Romanian farms still do not meet the biosecurity standards required for export to Asian markets. At the same time, slaughtering and logistics infrastructure remain fragmented, which limits price competitiveness.

In the medium term, the growth potential is significant: Romania benefits from agricultural resources, low production costs, and a strategic geographic position for exports to the Balkans and the Near East. Experts recommend investments in digital traceability, modernization of cold chain logistics, and international certifications — key elements for regaining the confidence of external partners.

Meat exports could once again become a major economic pillar if supported by coherent policies and public–private partnerships. In an increasingly competitive global market, Romania must rely on quality rather than volume, strengthening its reputation as a reliable and responsible supplier in the region.

(Photo: Freepik)