RAFINOR, Romania’s only gold refinery, reported a significant 45% increase in demand for investment gold bars during the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. This surge reflects a growing trend among Romanians who are turning to gold as a safe haven amid ongoing economic and geopolitical uncertainties.
This local development echoes a wider global pattern: inflation concerns, diminished trust in financial markets, and geopolitical tensions have bolstered gold’s status as a preferred asset for protection. According to the World Gold Council, global gold demand in the first quarter of 2025 hit 1,206 tonnes—the highest Q1 volume in a decade—with analysts predicting continued growth.
Claudiu Diaconu, CEO of RAFINOR, emphasizes a rising preference for Romanian-refined gold. “Investors, both experienced and new, are increasingly choosing tangible Romanian-made products with intrinsic value. This reflects a broader desire to support national industry while securing strategic assets,” he said.
RAFINOR currently produces gold bars with 999.9% purity, ranging from 2.5g to 20g, and meets national demand with a refining capacity of 6 tons annually. Plans are underway to increase capacity to 8 tons in 2026 and 15 tons within two years.
The refinery has partnered with MAGNOR to distribute its investment gold bars across 26 stores nationwide, alongside availability through STIL Diamonds. Each gold bar is certified by RAFINOR’s laboratory, the National Authority for Consumer Protection, and other accredited European labs, ensuring guaranteed purity and quality.
Purchasing Romanian gold offers multiple advantages: lower costs, faster delivery, enhanced security, and transparent transactions, all while supporting the local economy and precious metals sector development.
Looking ahead, RAFINOR aims to expand its distribution network and product range, targeting a turnover exceeding 100 million euros in the near future. The company is also strengthening its international presence, currently collaborating with European refineries for over half of its industrial output.
“RAFINOR embodies an ambitious vision to position Romania as a key player on Europe’s gold map,” concluded Diaconu. “Our goal is to transform Romania from a consumer market into a centre of excellence in gold refining, leveraging modern technology, local expertise, and strategic partnerships.”
