Group 203

Manufacture of paints, varnishes, printing ink and mastics

This category covers the manufacture of paints for construction, automotive, furniture, as well as varnishes, printing inks and mastics. Basically, all substances that color, protect or bond surfaces are produced here, from living room paint to printer ink.

Included Activities & Applicability

  • Manufacture of paints and varnishes
  • Manufacture of printing ink
  • Manufacture of mastics and putties
  • Manufacture of synthetic pigments and dyes
  • Packaging and labeling of finished products

Excluded Activities & Restrictions

  • Manufacture of fermentation dyes (NACE 2011)
  • Manufacture of rubber-based adhesives (NACE 2219)
  • Manufacture of ceramic paints (NACE 2391)
  • Wholesale trade of paints (NACE 4673)
  • Research and development activities in the field of paints (NACE 7211)

Detailed Analysis & Commercial Insights

Manufacture of paints, varnishes, printing ink and mastics

The manufacture of paints, varnishes, printing ink and mastics is a basic industrial niche for many economic sectors in Romania. Within division 203 are included the production processes of pigments and dispersions used both in construction and interior decoration, as well as in the automotive, furniture and packaging industries. From premium paints for weather-resistant facades to special varnishes for wood and offset inks for high-volume printing, this industry provides the essential raw material for finishing end products.

From a macroeconomic point of view, the sector is closely linked to the evolution of the real estate and construction market, as the demand for paints and varnishes increases with the number of renovation projects and new constructions. Also, the development of the packaging and printing industry influences the consumption of printing inks. In recent years, the trend towards sustainability has led manufacturers to invest in ecological formulations with low volatile organic compound content, aligning with European REACH regulations. Romania has a tradition in paint manufacturing, with several important local producers competing with international brands, and exports to Eastern European markets are growing.

Entrepreneurs operating in this sphere face challenges related to the fluctuation of raw material prices, especially pigments and resins from petrochemical sources. Also, compliance with environmental and occupational health and safety standards requires constant investments in ventilation and wastewater treatment equipment. The intense competition on the domestic market, both from cheap imports and established local producers, requires a differentiation strategy through quality, technical assistance services or specialization in certain niches, such as fireproof paints or those for aggressive environments. Despite these challenges, the sector remains attractive due to constant demand and the possibility of innovation in the field of sustainable formulations.