Market Intelligence
Public Sector Design and Construction Romania Transport and Logistics

Romania Railway Infrastructure Snapshot

Overview

Romania boasts one of the most extensive railway networks in Southeastern Europe. Despite its size, the system struggles with underinvestment, deteriorating infrastructure, and slow modernization. However, strong EU funding opportunities and Romania’s strategic location within the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) create substantial potential for growth.

Romania’s railway infrastructure is administered by CFR Infrastructura, the national railway company. Rail operations are split between state-owned carriers—CFR Călători (passenger) and CFR Marfă (freight)—and several private companies, including Grup Feroviar Român, Regio Călători, Transferoviar Călători, and Softrans.

As of 2025, Romania’s rail network comprises approximately 10,600 kilometers, of which around 4,000 kilometers are electrified. Only 20% of the network is double-tracked. Average speeds on some major routes remain below 60 km/h due to deferred maintenance and outdated signaling. The rollout of the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) is in progress to address these issues.

Romania’s network plays a strategic role in the TEN-T Core Network, intersecting with:
- Corridor IV: Nuremberg – Vienna – Budapest – Bucharest – Constanța
- Corridor IX: Helsinki – Kyiv – Bucharest – Giurgiu
- Rhine–Danube Corridor: Connecting the Port of Constanța with Central Europe

Challenges and Opportunities

Key Challenges:

  • Aging Infrastructure: Large segments of the network were built in the early 20th century.
  • Bureaucratic Hurdles: Slow execution and fund absorption impede progress.
  • Outdated Rolling Stock: Both passenger and freight operations rely on aging equipment.

Market Opportunities:

  • EU Funding Availability: Over $8 billion in EU and national investments are earmarked for 2021–2027, with $3 billion already disbursed by March 2025.
  • Strategic Location: Romania links Central Europe with the Black Sea, offering logistics advantages.
  • Private Sector Growth: Independent operators are gaining ground, especially in freight and regional services.
  • Policy Reform Momentum: Through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP) and the Three Seas Initiative, the government is prioritizing decarbonization and connectivity.

CFR priority projects for 2025 to 2028 include: 

  • Finalization of works on Corridor IV (Northern Branch): Brasov – Sighișoara & Simeria – Gurasada – Km 614
  • Procurement and modernization on Corridor IV (Southern Branch): Caransebeș – Craiova and 
    Bucharest – Giurgiu
  • Speed Limit Elimination: Across the TEN-T central and global corridors
  • Railway Station Modernization: Including bridges, tunnels, and signaling systems
  • Port of Constanța Rail Access: To enhance intermodal logistics
  • Bucharest’s Gara de Nord Revamp: Aimed at urban mobility and freight interconnectivity

Railway Reform Authority (ARF) planned rolling stock procurements:

  • 62 regional electric multiple units (RE-R1)
  • 12 hydrogen-powered electric units (RE-H)
  • 16 electric locomotives for passenger use
  • 60 additional regional electric units (RE-R2)
  • 5 inter-regional electric trains (RE-IR3)
  • 23 electric locomotives (LE2)
  • Integrated Passenger Ticketing System

Market Entry Considerations
All foreign firms must be certified by the Romanian Railway Authority. Certification, which ensures compliance with safety and interoperability standards, can take up to one year. U.S. exporters should be aware of procurement procedures, local technical standards, and the importance of aligning with EU regulations. 

Web Resources:

Key Resources and Contacts
For more information or to explore opportunities in Romania’s railway market, contact: Gabriel Popescu, Commercial Specialist, U.S. Commercial Service, gabriel.popescu@trade.gov.