The Bulgarian Petroleum and Gas Association (BPGA) sharply criticized the government's proposed 18-month period for price regulation during the introduction of the euro. In an official statement, experts insist on a drastic reduction of the control period.
The statement, addressed to key state institutions, emphasizes the need for a more flexible and proportional approach to the upcoming currency change. The organization refers to European experience, which shows that inflationary processes are most intense during the first two months after currency conversion.
BPGA's specific proposal is to limit price control to three calendar months - one month before and two months after the actual introduction of the euro. Experts emphasize that free market competition is the best mechanism to prevent unjustified price increases.
Among the association's additional recommendations are:
• More precise definition of economic factors
• Guaranteeing trade secrets during inspections
• Introduction of proportional sanctions
• Exclusion of fuels from extraordinary regulations
Support for BPGA's position also came from other industry organizations. The Modern Trade Association strongly calls for a comprehensive review of the draft law, emphasizing the lack of a preliminary impact assessment.
Business circles describe the government's proposed measures as "anti-market" and insist on a more consultative approach in drafting regulatory changes. They emphasize the need for an in-depth analysis of compliance with European legislation.
The draft law for introducing the euro has already passed its first reading in parliament, but criticisms from the business sector cast doubt on its final version. Additional discussions and potential corrections are expected.