Published in Scientific Papers. Series "Management, Economic Engineering in Agriculture and rural development", Vol. 24 ISSUE 1
Written by Horia Nicolae CIOCAN, Agatha POPESCU, Reta CONDEI, Ionela Mițuko VLAD, Valentin ȘERBAN

The recent implementation of a 1% turnover tax on companies exceeding €50 million in annual turnover by the Romanian government aims to secure a minimum tax contribution from large corporations, a move that directly impacts those in the grain trade, where profit margins are well-known slimdue to the volatile nature of global market prices and fierce competition. The analysis conducted in this study highlights the financial dynamics of the last five years for the largest grain trading entities in Romania, such as Ameropa, Cargill, CHS, COFCO, and Viterra. The simulation of the 1% turnover tax reveals a dramatic increase in tax liabilities for these companies, with the projected tax payments under the new regime nearly equating to their combined gross profits of €196.96 million, a stark rise from the €32.32 million paid under the old profit tax system.This significant increase in tax burden underscores the potential risks and challenges facing the agricultural sector. For grain trading companies, the new tax could necessitate a re-evaluation of cost structures and operational efficiencies to maintain profitability. The study suggests that these companies may have to adjust their purchasing prices or seek other avenues to offset the increased fiscal demands, potentially affecting the entire supply chain, including Romanian farmers.Farmers, in turn, could see a reduction in their income and investment capacity due to lower purchase prices for their produce, complicating the financial sustainability of rural areas. Furthermore, the limited ability to pass on additional costs in the export market, given the competitiveness of global prices, could strain the sector's profitability.

[Read full article] [Citation]