Comparison of Romania’s Natural Gas Market with Eastern European Markets

The Romanian natural gas market has unique characteristics but also shares similarities with other Eastern European markets. Comparing them highlights differences in maturity, regulation, and European integration.

Romania

• Significant domestic production
• Relatively low import dependency (under 30% in normal years)
• Recently liberalized market
• Infrastructure undergoing modernization
• Active presence on the Romanian Commodities Exchange (BRM)

Hungary

• High dependence on imports (from Russia)
• Strong interconnection with the European network
• Liberalized market, but with frequent government interventions
• Advanced development of storage capacities

Poland

• Active diversification policy (LNG, Baltic Pipe)
• Massive investments in energy independence
• Mature market with complex infrastructure
• Key regional player in gas re-export

Bulgaria

• Heavy reliance on imports
• Slow liberalization
• Recent interconnection projects (with Greece and Serbia)
• Small market, vulnerable to external shocks

Moldova

• Until recently, entirely dependent on Gazprom
• Currently diversifying through Romania and Ukraine
• Limited infrastructure
• Developing market, supported by European aid

Conclusion

Romania benefits from substantial domestic production and a strategic geographic position. However, to become a regional leader, it must accelerate reforms, develop infrastructure, and strengthen its legislative framework. The Romanian market has potential but remains in direct competition with more advanced regional players.