Legal Requirements for E-commerce Stores in Romania

What separates thriving online businesses from those facing legal penalties in Romania’s competitive digital market?

The answer lies in understanding and implementing non-negotiable regulatory standards.

With industry leaders like emag.ro generating $970.5 million in 2024 revenue alone, compliance isn’t optional—it’s the foundation of sustainable success.

Romania’s top three digital retailers control 31.7% of the market, a statistic underscoring the critical role of adherence to local laws.

Legal frameworks here prioritize consumer rights, payment security, and transparent data practices.

Romanian Businesses must align with these mandates to avoid fines, build trust, and secure long-term growth.

For example, strict data protection rules require retailers to safeguard customer information rigorously.

Payment processing systems must meet EU security standards, while return policies need explicit clarity under national consumer laws.

Professional guidance from experts like office@theromanianlawyers.com ensures seamless compliance across these areas.

This article provides actionable insights into Romania’s regulatory landscape, helping businesses navigate obligations while maximizing opportunities.

From market trends to operational best practices, readers will gain the knowledge needed to operate confidently in this dynamic environment.

Key Takeaways

• Market leaders demonstrate the revenue potential of compliant operations.
• Consumer rights and data security form the core of Romania’s digital retail laws.
• Top-performing businesses allocate resources to legal consultation for risk mitigation.
• Payment processing standards directly impact customer trust and regulatory standing.
• Understanding market share dynamics helps shape competitive compliance strategies.

Understanding the Romanian Legal Landscape

Romania’s digital retail sector operates under a precise regulatory framework enforced by multiple oversight bodies.

Three primary authorities govern compliance: the National Authority for Consumer Protection (ANPC), the National Supervisory Authority for Personal Data Processing (ANSPDCP), and the Competition Council.

Regulatory Authorities and Operational Mandates

ANPC monitors adherence to consumer rights laws, including 14-day return policies and transparent pricing.

ANSPDCP enforces GDPR compliance, requiring businesses to implement robust data encryption and breach notification protocols.

The Competition Council ensures fair market practices, particularly crucial as top platforms collectively hold 27% of the market share.

Legislation Shaping Digital Retail

Law 363/2007 mandates clear product descriptions and delivery timelines, while EU Directive 2019/771 requires warranty transparency.

Non-compliant businesses risk fines up to 4% of annual revenue.

For example, a major electronics store faced €86,000 penalties last year for inadequate return policy disclosures.

Annual legal updates remain critical as platforms evolve.

Consultation with specialists like office@theromanianlawyers.com helps businesses align operations with current standards while optimizing market performance.

Essential Compliance Checklist for E-commerce Stores in Romania

Operating a successful digital retail platform demands more than market awareness—it requires rigorous adherence to legal frameworks.

Leading platforms  demonstrate how compliance fuels growth while securing customer trust.

Consumer Protection and Data Privacy Regulations

Businesses must implement these critical measures:

• 14-day return policies with clear instructions per Law 363/2007;
• GDPR-compliant data encryption for all customer interactions;
• Detailed product descriptions meeting ANPC transparency standards.

Payment Systems, Security Measures, and Shipping Guidelines

Top performers use this operational blueprint:

1. PCI DSS-certified payment gateways to prevent fraud;
2. SSL encryption for transactions exceeding EU Directive 2019/771 requirements;
3. Tracked shipping with delivery confirmation within 48 hours.

Platforms updating policies quarterly see 23% fewer legal disputes.

Legal specialists like office@theromanianlawyers.com provide tailored audits to align operations with 2024 market shifts.

Regular reviews help maintain 98% compliance rates among top-tier sellers.

Practical Guidance for Navigating Legal and Market Challenges

How can romanian businesses transform regulatory compliance into competitive advantage?

Strategic analysis of market leaders reveals actionable patterns.

Platforms ranking in Romania’s top 10 allocate 15% of annual budgets to compliance infrastructure.

Expert Resources and Legal Consultation

Top performers implement these practices:

• Quarterly compliance audits with office@theromanianlawyers.com
• Real-time monitoring of ANPC policy updates;
• Data-driven adjustments to return policies.

Legal specialists provide tailored frameworks for tax optimization and contract management.

Platforms combining these strategies report 31% faster dispute resolution times.

Conclusion

Navigating Romania’s digital marketplace successfully hinges on merging legal precision with strategic business practices.

Market leaders like emag.ro—with 18.4% market share and $970.5M in annual sales—prove that compliance drives growth.

Strict adherence to consumer protection laws, data privacy standards, and payment security protocols remains non-negotiable for online stores.

Key authorities like ANPC and ANSPDCP enforce regulations requiring transparent return policies and GDPR-compliant data handling.

Platforms ranking in Romania’s top 10 allocate 15% of budgets to compliance, resulting in 23% fewer disputes.

A detailed list of requirements ensures alignment with evolving standards.

Legal experts like office@theromanianlawyers.com provide tailored frameworks to navigate these challenges.

Their guidance helps businesses optimize market performance while building trust with customers.

Regular audits and policy updates position platforms for sustained success in competitive sectors.

Proactive compliance transforms regulatory obligations into opportunities for share expansion.

For actionable strategies and risk mitigation, consult legal professionals to future-proof operations.

FAQ

What legal registrations are required to operate an online store in Romania?

Which authorities oversee compliance for digital retailers in the country?

How do Romania’s consumer protection laws affect return policies?

Are there specific security standards for payment processing systems?

What penalties apply for non-compliance with data privacy regulations?

Where can businesses access market share data for strategic planning?

How can legal experts assist with cross-border shipping compliance?

Set up a Limited Liability Company in Romania

The most common forms of companies in Romania are the Limited Liability Company, the Joint Stock Company and Branches.

The Limited Liability Company in Romania has:

• The share capital is divided into equal shares and, according to Law no. 31/1990, it cannot be less than 1 RON.
• A Limited Liability Company in Romania may have between 1 and 50 shareholders.
• The shareholders are liable in the limit of the contribution to the share capital.

Documents requested by the Trade Register for the company formation are:

• Proof of reservation of company name
• Articles of incorporation for the new Romanian company
• Excerpts issued by the Trade Register where the shareholders are incorporated- legal entities (if they are)
• The identity document of the shareholders natural persons (ID, Passport)
• Passport or ID of the future director of the Romanian company
• The document attesting the right of use over the space with destination of registered office ( e.g. lease agreement, property) and the ownership property documents
• standard application.

Taxation of LLC company in Romania 2023

The tax rates used for micro-company income tax are:

• 1% for micro-companies with one or more employees.
• 3% for micro-companies with no employees.

The standard corporate income tax rate is 16%. Taxpayers that are carrying on activities such as gambling and nightclubs are either subject to 5% rate of the revenue obtained from such activities or to 16% of the taxable profit, depending on which is higher.

Romanian micro company tax regime starting with the first fiscal year and will remain under this tax regime if it meets all of the following criteria:

• The maximum threshold of annual turnover is EUR 500.000.
• Income generated from consultancy and management activities is not more than 20% of the annual turnover;
• It does not carry out any banking, insurance and reassurance, capital markets, gambling or upstream oil & gas activities;
• The share capital must be held by entities other than the state or the local authorities.

Moreover, the Romanian company has to pay to the state the imposed social contributions (pensions, health, work contribution) and the income tax for each employee.

There are no citizenship or residency requirements in order to register a Limited Company in Romania.

Our team of Romanian Lawyers can assist you for the set up of a LLC in Romania and our team of Romanian accountants can take on the fiscal set up of your newly formatted company.

Contact us for more info in order to set up a Romanian Limited Liability Company.

Why Romania is a Cost-Effective and Attractive Location to Start a Business

 Low Taxes

Start a Business in Romania and Benefit from a Flat Corporate Tax Rate of Only 16%.

Affordable Labor Costs

Take Advantage of Affordable Labor Costs and a Skilled Workforce When You Start a Business in Romania.

Low Living Expenses

Keep Your Overhead Low with Low Living Expenses in Romania.

 Favorable Business Climate in Romania

Explore Romania’s Pro-Business Environment and Streamlined Business Registration Processes

Tax Incentives

Romania has one of the lowest corporate tax rates in the European Union, and there are also double taxation avoidance treaties in place to help businesses save even more money.

Romania offers various tax incentives to incentivize foreign investment and promote business growth in the country.

Some of the key tax incentives available for businesses in Romania include:

• Reduced corporate tax rate: Romania has one of the lowest corporate tax rates in the European Union at only 16%. This flat tax rate applies to all businesses, regardless of size or industry.
• Tax exemptions: Romania offers tax exemptions for certain types of income, including dividends and interest, which can help businesses reduce their tax burden.
• VAT exemptions: Small businesses with an annual revenue of less than 220,000 EUR are exempt from charging and paying value-added tax (VAT) in Romania.
• Research and development (R&D) incentives: Companies engaged in R&D activities in Romania are eligible for tax credits and exemptions on certain expenses related to research and development.
• Employment incentives: Romania also offers various employment incentives to encourage job creation and workforce development. These incentives include wage subsidies, social security exemptions, and training grants.

Streamlined Business Registration Processes

To register a business in Romania, you’ll need to provide several documents and complete several steps.

Here’s an overview of the registration process and the documents required:

1. Choose a legal entity: The first step in the registration process is to choose a legal entity for your business. Common legal entities in Romania include sole proprietorships, limited liability companies (LLCs), joint-stock companies, and partnerships.
2. Obtain a unique registration code (CUI): Once you’ve chosen a legal entity, you’ll need to obtain a unique registration code (CUI) from the Romanian Trade Register. This code is required for tax and legal purposes and identifies your business in the Romanian business registry.
3. Register with the Trade Register: You’ll need to register your business with the Romanian Trade Register by submitting a registration application and the required documents.
4. Obtain tax registration: Once your business is registered with the Trade Register, you’ll need to obtain tax registration from the National Agency for Fiscal Administration (ANAF). You’ll need to provide your CUI, as well as other documents such as your articles of incorporation and identification documents.
5. Obtain any necessary permits or licenses: Depending on the type of business you’re starting, you may also need to obtain additional permits or licenses from local or national authorities.

Stable Political and Economic Climate

Access to Skilled Labor

In Romania, you’ll find a highly skilled and educated workforce, particularly in fields such as IT, engineering, and manufacturing. This skilled labor pool is due in part to Romania’s strong education system, which emphasizes science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. Additionally, many Romanians are fluent in multiple languages, including English, French, German, and Spanish, making them valuable assets for businesses with international operations.

When you start a business in Romania, you’ll have access to this highly skilled labor pool at a fraction of the cost of other European countries. Labor costs in Romania are among the lowest in the EU, which can help you reduce your overhead and increase your profit margins. Moreover, the Romanian government has implemented various programs and initiatives to support workforce development and training, ensuring that the labor force remains skilled and competitive.

Investment Opportunities

Nevertheless, Romania offers a wide range of investment opportunities across various industries. Some of the most promising industries for investment in Romania include:

• IT and software development: Romania has a rapidly growing IT sector with a highly skilled and educated workforce. The country is home to numerous tech startups and multinational companies, making it an attractive destination for businesses in the industry.
• Manufacturing: With a strong tradition in manufacturing and a location at the crossroads of major European markets, Romania offers favorable conditions for businesses in the manufacturing sector. The country’s low labor costs and skilled workforce make it an ideal location for companies looking to manufacture and export products.
• Agriculture and food processing: Romania has a favorable climate and fertile soil, making it an ideal location for agriculture and food processing businesses. The country is a major producer of wheat, corn, and other crops, as well as wine and other food products.
• Renewable energy: Romania has made significant investments in renewable energy in recent years, particularly in wind and solar power. The country’s favorable regulatory environment and abundant natural resources make it an attractive destination for businesses in the renewable energy sector.
• Tourism and hospitality: With a rich history, diverse culture, and beautiful landscapes, Romania has significant potential for growth in the tourism and hospitality industry. The country is home to numerous historic sites, natural landmarks, and cultural attractions, making it an ideal destination for travelers.

 Legal Considerations

Ensure Compliance with Local Laws and Regulations with the Help of an Experienced Commercial Lawyer When You Start a Business in Romania.

The most common forms of companies in Romania are the Limited Liability Company, the Joint Stock Company and Branches.

                                     The Limited Liability Company in Romania has:

• The share capital is divided into equal shares and, according to Law no. 31/1990, it cannot be less than 1 RON.
• A Limited Liability Company in Romania may have between 1 and 50 shareholders.
• The shareholders are liable in the limit of the contribution to the share capital.

       Documents requested by the Trade Register for the company formation are:

• Proof of reservation of company name
• Articles of incorporation for the new Romanian company
• Excerpts issued by the Trade Register where the shareholders are incorporated- legal entities (if they are)
• The identity document of the shareholders natural persons (ID, Passport)
• Passport or ID of the future director of the Romanian company
• The document attesting the right of use over the space with destination of registered office ( e.g. lease agreement, property) and the ownership property documents
• standard application.

                                    Taxation of LLC company in Romania 2023

The tax rates used for micro-company income tax are:

• 1% for micro-companies with one or more employees.
• 3% for micro-companies with no employees.

The standard corporate income tax rate is 16%. Taxpayers that are carrying on activities such as gambling and nightclubs are either subject to 5% rate of the revenue obtained from such activities or to 16% of the taxable profit, depending on which is higher.

Romanian micro company tax regime starting with the first fiscal year and will remain under this tax regime if it meets all of the following criteria:

• The maximum threshold of annual turnover is EUR 500.000.
• Income generated from consultancy and management activities is not more than 20% of the annual turnover;
• It does not carry out any banking, insurance and reassurance, capital markets, gambling or upstream oil & gas activities;
• The share capital must be held by entities other than the state or the local authorities.

Moreover, the Romanian company has to pay to the state the imposed social contributions (pensions, health, work contribution) and the income tax for each employee.

There are no citizenship or residency requirements in order to register a Limited Company in Romania.

Our team of Romanian Lawyers can assist you for the set up of a LLC in Romania and our team of Romanian accountants can take on the fiscal set up of your newly formatted company.

Contact us for more info in order to set up a Romanian Limited Liability Company.