ABSTRACT
In 1989, industry in socialist Romania had three outstanding characteristics. Reflecting the former economic inequalities between the main historical regions of the country and combined with a desire to demonstrate the superiority of the system, socialist economic policy was founded on the principle of equity and territorial harmony. The fundamental role of industry in urban growth is shown by the prominence of the industrial towns within the functional urban structure. In spite of the location policy, some regional differences remained, showing discrepancies between the ideological principle and the real potential of each area. The share of the industrial workforce among the total active population at the communal level shows considerable variation. Towns concerned with light industry and food industries linked closely with local resources are in a better situation. Some, however, have been affected by the privatization of agriculture and the alarming reduction of industrial crops as private farmers are attracted by more profitable enterprises.
