CAEN Code Rev. 3

421

Construction of roads and motorways

EU NACE Equivalent: NACE Rev. 3 — 421

This macro-category covers all construction works of roads, motorways, bridges and tunnels. If your company deals with earthworks, asphalt paving, installation of road signs or construction of airport runways, this is the appropriate CAEN code.

Entrepreneur Profile

This CAEN code 421 is intended for entrepreneurs and companies (SRL, PFA) wishing to develop a business focused on construction of roads and motorways. It is ideal for founders aiming to offer specialized services or products in this economic niche within the Romanian market.

Who should avoid:

Avoid the exclusive use of code 421 if the main activity of your company shifts towards other commercial or related branches not specified in the official description. See the excluded activities section below.

Road and Motorway Construction Industry in Romania

The road and motorway construction industry in Romania has undergone significant evolution in recent decades, being a central pillar of national infrastructure development. CAEN code 421 covers not only the construction of motorways and national roads but also related works such as bridges, tunnels and airport runways. In the macroeconomic context, this division directly contributes to GDP growth, facilitates trade and reduces regional disparities.

Romania still faces a major deficit of motorways and modernized roads, creating sustained demand for services in this field. However, entrepreneurs operating here face recurring challenges such as fluctuations in raw material prices (bitumen, aggregates), lack of skilled labor, and bureaucracy associated with obtaining permits and European funding contracts. In addition, competition is fierce, especially from large construction companies as well as foreign firms entering the market.

Digitalization and modern technologies, such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) and autonomous machinery, are starting to make their presence felt, offering efficiency and quality advantages. To remain competitive, companies in this sector must invest in equipment modernization, staff training and the adoption of sustainable practices. Moreover, access to European funds through the Large Infrastructure Operational Programme remains a major financing opportunity for large-scale projects.

In conclusion, the road and motorway construction field is dynamic, with good growth prospects, but requires adaptability and careful management of operational and financial risks.


Included Activities

  • ✅ Construction of motorways, roads, streets and other roadways
  • ✅ Construction of airport runways
  • ✅ Construction of bridges and tunnels
  • ✅ Earthworks and site preparation for roads
  • ✅ Asphalt and concrete paving works for roads
  • ✅ Installation of protective barriers, traffic signs and lighting systems on roads

Excluded Activities

  • ❌ Civil construction works (residential or commercial) that are not part of the road network
  • ❌ Architectural design or engineering activities separate from execution
  • ❌ Routine maintenance and repair of roads (CAEN 422)
  • ❌ Manufacture of construction materials (e.g., asphalt, concrete)
  • ❌ Construction of utility networks (water, gas, electricity) outside road infrastructure
  • ❌ Rental of machinery with operator

Întrebări Frecvente

What type of companies can use CAEN code 421?

Any legal entity in Romania (SRL, PFA, Individual Enterprise) performing activities related to "construction of roads and motorways" is required to have this code authorized in its articles of incorporation or at the Trade Register.

Are special permits required for CAEN 421?

The need for permits depends on the exact nature of the operations carried out under class 421. Some activities require authorizations from DSV, Environment, or Occupational Safety, while others can be conducted solely based on the self-declaration at incorporation.