Romania’s GDP growth rises to 7% in 2017

6.4ppt of growth came from private consumption leading to a negative net export contribution of -0.8ppt, while fixed investments added 1.2ppt. Hence, the growth picture for 2017 points to an unsustainable backdrop as recently consumer confidence was hit by fiscal uncertainties, higher interest rates and a weaker currency.

On the supply side, services were the main driver adding 3.7ppt to growth, the industry contributed 1.9ppt, with construction having a neutral impact on the 7.0% expansion in 2017. The significant positive contribution from agriculture of 0.7ppt is worth noting, which is why the potential upside surprise from this volatile sector in 2018 is somewhat limited.

The 6.9% YoY GDP growth rate in 4Q17 resulted mainly from private consumption adding 7.4ppt and gross fixed capital formation bringing 2.8ppt, while net exports and inventories had a negative contribution of -1.3ppt and -1.5ppt respectively.

On the supply side, out of 6.9% growth, services provided 3.6ppt, industry 2.2ppt, while construction 0.1ppt amid heavy budget spending in December. The sequential growth of 0.6% QoQ was negatively influenced by agriculture as most of the production was registered in 3Q17, with services and industry increasing their positive contribution versus the previous quarter. Private consumption was the main driver of the sequential growth, followed by investments, while public consumption had a negative impact.

As suggested by retail sales data, private consumption slowed down to 2.2% QoQ from 3.2% previously, significantly reducing its contribution to 4Q17 QoQ expansion. Gross fixed capital investments accelerated to 3.7% QoQ from 2.8% previously. Nevertheless, it was not enough to offset the slowdown in consumption. Net export contribution to 4Q17 QoQ dynamic was neutral.

Despite an expected acceleration in investments in the absorption of the EU funds, it is unlikely to offset the downturn in consumption, with confidence indicators pointing south across the board recently.

2018 could see the industry performing well on robust external demand, while services are slowing down as consumers are likely to reassess their spending priorities. Construction is heavily reliant on state investments which are planned to increase versus the previous year.

Nevertheless, if the budget falls short of revenues due to weaker than expected growth, public investments are the usual suspect to fill the budget gaps.