Romanians spent almost 92 billion lei on fast-moving consumer goods in the first nine months of 2026, about 5 percent more than in the same period last year, according to NielsenIQ analysts. Inflation accounted for 3.9 percent of that growth, while volume growth stayed below 1 percent, meaning most of the increase came from higher prices rather than more purchases.
Shoppers cut back and stay home
Volumes fell in the same period last year, so this year’s modest value gain is a recovery of sorts. Price increases eased through the year, from Q1 2026 to Q3 2026, to nearly half their earlier pace.
Price rises for fast-moving goods reached 4.5 percent in the first quarter, measured quarter on quarter.
What the final quarter could show
NielsenIQ analysts point to the last months of the year as the most important period for retailers.
Exchange rates listed alongside the report put the euro at 5.3498 lei and the dollar at 4.8428 lei.
Related: Indonesia lifts holiday transport stimulus to Rp 883 billion · Turkey's consumer prices rise 2.58% in October, annual inflation 29.77%
Source: NielsenIQ
