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- CAEN Codes - Unraveling the Nomenclature

CAEN codes are a classification system used to identify various economic activities in Romania. Each activity is assigned a unique code, making it easier to identify and classify businesses and their operations. The purpose of these codes is to provide a standardized method for categorizing economic activities, which aids in statistical analysis and reporting.

A CAEN code consists of a four-digit number that corresponds to a specific economic activity. Every legal entity in Romania has a primary activity represented by a CAEN code, which is established in the organization's constitutive act, regardless of whether it is a PFA (authorized natural person) or SRL (limited liability company). Choosing the right CAEN code for your business is essential, as it determines the types of activities you are legally permitted to engage in.

When selecting a CAEN code, consider the nature of the goods and services your business provides, as well as the means of production, processes, and technology you employ. It is also important to anticipate any future expansions or changes in your business activities so that you can establish the corresponding secondary CAEN codes.

To modify or add a CAEN code, specific documents are required. If you are choosing a code as an Authorized Natural Person, you must provide proof of your training or professional experience in that field. This can be done through academic diplomas or certificates, or through certification from a former employer verifying your relevant work experience.

Automatically find the relevant CAEN codes for your business with Ava:

Identifying Main and Secondary CAEN Codes for Your Business:

When establishing a business, it is crucial to identify both the main and secondary CAEN codes that align with your intended activities. The main CAEN code represents the primary focus of your business, while the secondary codes cover additional or complementary operations.

To choose the appropriate CAEN codes, take into account the nature of your goods and services, how your products and services are utilized, and your production methods and technology. It is recommended to anticipate your business activities as accurately and early as possible to establish the correct CAEN codes.

For instance, if you are launching a marketing company, your main CAEN code could be 7311 - Activities of advertising agencies. You may also need secondary codes like 7021 - Public relations and communication consulting activities or 7320 - Market research and public opinion polling activities to cover all aspects of your business.

Note that each legal entity, whether PFA or SRL, is assigned one primary activity represented by a CAEN code as per its constitutive act. However, you have the option to add up to five secondary CAEN codes to encompass a broader range of business activities.

To make an informed decision, you can refer to the ONRC website, which provides a comprehensive list of CAEN codes along with their respective descriptions. Ensure that you possess the necessary training or professional experience in the fields associated with your chosen CAEN codes.

In conclusion, correctly identifying the main and secondary CAEN codes for your business is vital for establishing your legal entity and ensuring compliance with Romanian regulations. Take the time to research and select the most appropriate codes that reflect your current and anticipated future activities.

CAEN Codes for Specific Industries:

CAEN codes are integral to doing business in Romania, and choosing the right ones can significantly impact your success. Here are some examples of CAEN codes for popular industries:

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If you're starting a marketing company, consider the following CAEN codes:

  • 7311 – Activities of advertising agencies
  • 7312 - Media representation services
  • 5819 – Other editing activities
  • 9003 – Artistic creation activities
  • 7021 – Public relations and communication consulting activities
  • 7022 – Business and management consulting
  • 5813 – Newspaper publishing
  • 5814 – Magazine and periodical publishing
  • 7320 – Market research and public opinion polling

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For those in the hospitality industry, the following CAEN codes may be relevant:

  • 5510 – Hotels and other accommodation facilities
  • 5520 – Holiday and other short-stay accommodation
  • 5530 – Caravan parks, campsites, and camps
  • Restaurants: 5610
  • 5621 – Event catering
  • 5629 – Other food service activities
  • 5630 – Bars and other beverage service activities

IT Section

In the IT industry, consider the following CAEN codes:

  • 6201 – Custom software creation
  • 6202 – Computer programming services
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  • Computer consultancy activities: 6203

Other information technology and computer services: 6209

Remember, choosing the right NAICS or SIC codes is crucial for your business, so take the time to research and select the codes that best represent your services.

Reasons for Changing or Updating NAICS/SIC Codes

As your business expands and evolves, you may find your current NAICS or SIC codes no longer accurately reflect the nature of your operations. In such cases, updating these codes is necessary to ensure they align with your current business activities.

There are several reasons why you might need to change your NAICS or SIC codes. For example, your product or service offerings may have expanded, or you may have shifted your focus to a different aspect of your business. Alternatively, you may have discovered that your current codes do not provide the advantages you had expected, such as access to certain grants or funding sources.

Regardless of your reasons for wanting to change your NAICS or SIC codes, it's important to approach the process carefully and deliberately. This may include consulting with legal or financial experts to ensure you are making the right choices for your business. Additionally, remember to update your codes with the relevant authorities, such as the Secretary of State or equivalent, to avoid any legal or financial complications down the line.

Overall, changing your NAICS or SIC codes can be complex, but it is a crucial step in ensuring your business is accurately represented and positioned for success. Taking the time to carefully consider your options and seek expert advice can set your business up for long-term growth and achievement.

NAICS/SIC Codes and Business Compliance

NAICS and SIC codes are essential for business compliance and reporting. They classify the types of activities businesses can conduct in a country or region. NAICS stands for North American Industry Classification System, while SIC stands for Standard Industrial Classification.

Assigning the appropriate NAICS or SIC code to each legal entity is mandatory. Each entity has a primary business activity, represented by a code that is established in the organization's founding documents, regardless of the business structure.

CAEN Code 9103: Operation of historical sites, buildings, and similar visitor attractions

When establishing your business's CAEN code, it is advisable to precisely determine and anticipate your business activities as early as possible. If there is a possibility of expanding into other activities in the future, having a clear understanding of those potential ventures will enable you to establish the appropriate secondary CAEN codes.

In conclusion, grasping the significance of CAEN codes in business compliance and reporting is of utmost importance for entrepreneurs and business owners in Romania. Selecting the right CAEN code ensures that your business operates within legal boundaries and that your reported activities are accurate.

CAEN Codes and Business Financing

For small business owners seeking funding or grants, understanding the impact of CAEN codes on eligibility is crucial. CAEN codes are a classification system that identifies the economic activities a business can engage in within Romania.

Specific grants and funding programs may have eligibility criteria based on the CAEN codes associated with your business. For instance, if you operate in the HoReCa industry and aim to apply for a grant, you must ensure your business aligns with one of the eligible CAEN codes outlined in the program guidelines.

Additionally, it is imperative that the CAEN code listed in your business's constitutive act corresponds to the actual activities your business undertakes. Offering services beyond your authorized CAEN codes may result in ineligibility for certain funding opportunities.

To enhance your business's eligibility for grants and funding programs, selecting the correct CAEN codes that mirror your business activities is essential. Staying abreast of changes in eligibility requirements and exploring new funding opportunities that may become accessible is also highly recommended.

CAEN Codes and International Business

The significance of CAEN codes extends beyond local businesses in Romania; they are equally vital for international trade. When collaborating with foreign partners, ensuring the accuracy and alignment of CAEN codes with the conducted activities is essential.

In certain instances, Romania's CAEN codes might not be recognizable or comprehensible to foreign partners. In such cases, employing international classification systems, such as the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) or the International Standard Industrial Classification of All Economic Activities (ISIC), may be necessary.

Furthermore, it is worth noting that different countries may utilize distinct classification systems, which can lead to confusion. Therefore, researching and understanding the classification systems adopted by foreign partners is crucial to ensuring the consistent use of correct codes.