Managers in all economic sectors covered by the statistical survey estimate relative stability in economic activity over the August-October 2026 period, while sharp price increases are expected in the construction and retail sectors, according to data compiled by the National Institute of Statistics (INS).

According to the INS, managers in the manufacturing industry anticipate relative stability in production volume over the next three months, reflected by a balance of -1%. As regards the number of employees, relative stability is also estimated, with a balance of -5%. Industrial product prices are expected to increase, indicated by a balance of +21%.

As regards production volume in the construction sector, relative stability is forecast over the next three months (balance +4%). Managers anticipate relative stability in the number of employees (balance +2%). Construction work prices are expected to follow an upward trend, reflected by a balance of +41%.

In the retail sector, managers estimate relative stability in turnover over the next three months, with a balance of +5%. As regards the workforce, employers anticipate a moderate increase in the number of employees (balance +6%). Price increases are estimated by 43% of respondents, while only 3% expect decreases, with a balance of +40% indicating a sharp increase.

Based on the estimated data, the volume of services (turnover) forecast for the next three months indicates relative stability, with a balance of +1%. The number of employees is also forecast to remain relatively stable (balance -2%). The sale or invoice prices of service deliveries are expected to increase, a trend reflected by a balance of +17%.

The INS mentioned that the results presented were obtained through business tendency surveys conducted in August 2026, reflecting estimates made by company managers regarding trends in the evolution of economic activity, the number of employees and prices. The final result is expressed as a percentage balance, calculated as the difference between the share of those who chose the positive version (will increase) of the phenomenon and the share of those who indicated the negative version (will decrease).

Moreover, the institution mentioned that the balance reflects company managers' perception of the dynamics of a phenomenon and should not be confused with the rate of increase or decrease of any statistical indicator produced by the INS. AGERPRES (RO - writing by: George Banciulea; EN - writing by: Rodica State)

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