Telecom subscriptions in Romania projected to rise due to inflation

Telecommunications, internet, and cable subscriptions in Romania are projected to increase in cost starting next year. Major operators, including Orange and Vodafone, have the legal right to index prices based on inflation rates.

Estimates suggest that prices expressed in euros could rise by at least 6%. However, because bills are paid in lei, the actual cost to consumers could increase by 7.5% to 10%. In scenarios involving a depreciation of the leu, total increases could reach between 12% and 13%.

A notable factor in these increases is that operators apply Romanian inflation indices to tariffs that are expressed in euros. Orange has stated it uses the Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices (HICP) reported by Eurostat to minimize consumer impact, justifying the adjustments as necessary to cover rising supply costs and maintain service quality. Additionally, the use of exchange rates for billing that differ from the National Bank of Romania's official rates may further contribute to higher costs for customers.