The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has recommended Romania increase its VAT rate by 2% to address its national deficit. Political uncertainty and an unfavorable global economy threaten Romania's growth targets for 2025 and 2026. The country’s state debt is also expected to climb to 58% of GDP within the next year, further endangering fiscal goals. However, Romanian president-elect Nicusor Dan recently indicated that his new government is unlikely to implement the VAT increase. 

The bottom line: The country’s current VAT rate sits at 19%. The IMF is recommending two 1% VAT rate hikes between 2025 and 2027, bringing the country’s rate up to 22%.