The Organic Revolution in Romania.

Timișoara, Romania

Romania's Organic Revolution: From Fields to Future

Romania has been quietly undergoing a farming revolution over the past two decades — a green revolution, quite literally. What started as a niche practice has blossomed into a thriving sector, with more farmers embracing organic practices, consumers seeking cleaner food, and the country becoming an important player in Europe’s organic market.

From Tiny Beginnings to 700,000 Hectares

Back in 2001, organic farming barely existed in Romania. Fast forward to today, and nearly 700,000 hectares are now certified organic. That’s a thirtyfold increase in just 20 years.

This growth has been especially strong since 2010, with huge jumps in:

• Grasslands and pastures – ideal for organic livestock.

• Cereals and industrial crops – a major export focus.

• Fruit orchards and vineyards – which grew sixfold between 2010 and 2021.

The number of certified organic farmers and processors has also climbed steadily, reaching around 14,000 operators in 2023, up from 13,000 just a year earlier.

Why Organic Farming is Booming

Several factors are fueling this organic revolution:

1. Support from the EU

EU policies and funding make switching to organic more attractive by offering financial incentives and grants.

2. Perfect Conditions for Organic

Many rural areas in Romania already use low‑intensity, traditional farming methods, making the transition to organic much easier.

3. Export Markets are Hungry

Romania exports a significant portion of its organic products, especially cereals, to meet the growing demand across Europe.

4. Consumers Want Cleaner Food

At home, more people are seeking out healthier, more sustainable food — though there’s still room for growth in the domestic market.

Cows in Romanian mountains.

Challenges Along the Way

It hasn’t been smooth sailing, though. The sector faces a few roadblocks:

• High conversion costs: Switching to organic can be expensive and risky for farmers, especially at first.

• Limited local infrastructure: Many products are exported because Romania lacks enough organic processing facilities.

• Consumer trust issues: Concerns about labeling and authenticity can slow down growth in local markets.

• Volatile production: Some crops, like organic vegetables, are vulnerable to pests, diseases, and weather extremes.

  
  

Romania vs. the EU

Even with all this progress, Romania’s share of organic farmland is still below the EU average. The good news? Its growth rate is among the fastest in Europe, making it a country to watch in the coming years.

What’s Next for Organic Farming in Romania

Looking ahead, several steps could take Romania’s organic sector to the next level:

• Investing in local supply chains so more products stay in the country.

• Helping farmers transition with better training and financial support.

• Building trust with consumers through strong labeling and education campaigns.

• Focusing on high-value crops like fruits, nuts, and vegetables to boost profitability.

  
  

A Greener Future

Romania’s organic farming story is proof of what’s possible when tradition, policy, and modern consumer demands come together. With continued support and smart investments, Romania could become a leader in sustainable agriculture — creating healthier food, stronger rural economies, and a cleaner environment for generations to come.

Traditional Foods in Timișoara, Romania.