The 2026 budget project allocates 2.7 billion lei for research, an increase of 28% compared to the previous year, but remains below the threshold of 1% of GDP.

The budget project for 2026 provides for an allocation of approximately 2.7 billion lei for fundamental research and development, representing only 0.13% of the estimated GDP of 2.045 billion lei. This amount, an increase of 28% compared to the previous year, comes in the context of a 10% reduction in personnel expenses. Although the budget for research has increased, it remains significantly below the threshold of 1% of GDP established by old regulations, which should have been reached since 2020. The reduction of the doctoral stipend and staff cuts have generated protests from researchers in various cities. The budget project, currently under public consultation, will be submitted to Parliament for approval, where it may undergo modifications.