Bulgaria remains the only European member state without specific mechanisms to counter inflationary processes. This was categorically stated by Maya Manolova in an exclusive interview with the public media, presenting the details of her anti-speculation bill.
The expert document provides for the introduction of extremely strict regulatory mechanisms to control prices of strategically important goods and services. The main proposals include introducing maximum market values to be determined by the Council of Ministers, as well as returning to reference price levels from previous periods.
Inspired by the practices of neighboring countries, Manolova presents specific examples of effective models. In Greece, there are special provisions for over-the-counter medications, while Croatia applies a mathematical formula for calculating fuel prices based on stock quotes and minimum trade margins.
The bill has a clearly defined time horizon - covering the six-month period before entering the Eurozone and an additional year after that. The responsibility for implementing the measures will be distributed among various state institutions, including the Ministries of Economy, Agriculture, and Healthcare.
The political activist emphasizes the critical necessity of such regulations, pointing out that current incomes are significantly lagging behind actual inflation. "The authorities must understand that the only way to enter the Eurozone less painfully is by adopting such legislation," Manolova is categorical.
In her address, she calls on all parliamentary groups, emphasizing that the proposed measures are in the interest of voters from various political formations - BSP, ITN, PP-DB, GERB, and DPS.
Additionally, Manolova launched a sharp criticism against Rositsa Kirova, accusing her of disrespectful behavior during a previous public statement related to her candidacy for ombudsman.
At the moment, the bill is awaiting review by the Council of Ministers, and its fate will directly depend on the political will to protect the economic interests of Bulgarian citizens.