Evaluating Logistics Costs and Their Influence on Romania’s Economic Competitiveness in the European Transport Market

Logistics costs represent a critical component of national economic performance, as they directly affect productivity, mobility, trade efficiency, and the attractiveness of the business environment. Romania’s strategic geographical position and its role as a gateway between Central Europe, the Balkans, and the Black Sea region highlight the importance of efficient transport systems. The analysis explores the composition of logistics costs — including transportation, warehousing, handling, inventory management, and administrative expenses — and compares Romania’s performance with that of the European Union. The study underlines structural limitations such as inadequate infrastructure, low network connectivity, congestion, and imbalances between transport modes. Conclusions emphasize the necessity of integrated policies and long-term investments aimed at lowering logistics costs and improving Romania’s competitiveness on the European transport market.