Scrap car scheme, worth RON 200 million, successfully revived by Romania's environment minister.
The Romanian "Rabla" car scrappage scheme, a program that has been instrumental in promoting greener transportation since its inception in 2005, is set to be relaunched for individuals following a recent analysis and revision by the authorities.
The Environment Minister Diana Buzoianu announced the resumption of the government-sponsored scheme, stating the necessity of this relaunch due to prior investments and people’s advance payments, which made it important to continue the program for economic impact[1]. However, she also emphasized that a long-term reevaluation of the Rabla scheme is needed, particularly to focus more extensively on the goal of reducing polluting emissions rather than simply voucher allocation[2].
The program will restart with a reduced budget of 200 million lei (about 40 million Euros) compared to previous funding levels[1][2]. This budgetary cut has contributed to a significant drop in new car registrations in June 2025 in Romania, which fell by 50% compared with the previous year, marking the largest decline in the EU[3].
The "Rabla" 2025 program for individuals will offer non-reimbursable funding for scrapping old, polluting vehicles and purchasing new, less polluting, and more energy-efficient vehicles[4]. For electric models, buyers can receive vouchers up to EUR 7,500 within the "Rabla" 2025 program[5]. Financing the purchase of diesel-powered vehicles is not permitted in the "Rabla" 2025 program[5].
The minister also emphasized the need to consider the economic impact when designing measures for the "Rabla" program[2]. Despite the budgetary difficulties, the "Rabla" program for individuals has been saved[6]. The Environmental Fund Administration manages the "Rabla" program and announced the start of the registration session for individuals in the "Rabla" 2025 program on June 19, 2025[7].
The "Rabla" scheme aims to replace older, polluting cars with newer models, contributing to a more sustainable and emissions-focused future for Romania. The government’s commitment to continue Rabla despite budget constraints demonstrates a dedication to promoting greener transportation and reducing emissions.
[1] Buzoianu, D. (2025). Rabla program to be relaunched. Facebook. [2] Romanian Government (2025). Rabla program relaunch strategy. Government Press Release. [3] ACEA (2025). Car sales decline in Romania due to Rabla cuts. ACEA Press Release. [4] Romanian Government (2025). Rabla 2025 program details. Government Press Release. [5] Environmental Fund Administration (2025). Rabla 2025 program guidelines. Environmental Fund Administration Website. [6] Buzoianu, D. (2025). Rabla program for individuals saved. Facebook. [7] Environmental Fund Administration (2025). Rabla 2025 registration session starts. Environmental Fund Administration Website.
The Environmental Fund Administration, manager of the "Rabla" program, announced the resumption of the government-sponsored scheme, emphasizing the need to focus more extensively on reducing polluting emissions and improving environmental science within the process. As the program progresses, it's crucial for the industry to evaluate its finance strategies to ensure a sustainable and profitable future.
