Strict pricing control
Parliament has adopted legislative changes aimed at curbing speculative price increases. From now on, any increase in the price of a good or service must be economically justified, with the restriction in force for a period of one year.
The Consumer Protection Commission (CPC) is granted broad powers to conduct inspections of production costs, supply prices, and final market value.
Drastic fines for traders
Lawmakers have provided for serious financial penalties for offenders:
- Fines ranging from 10,000 to 100,000 euros for an infringement involving a single product.
- Penalties are imposed for each individual item when an infringement is established.
- In the event of a repeat offense, the amount of the fines is doubled.
Politicians' positions
Opinions in the plenary hall remain divided. The opposition, represented by Vladislav Panev (DB) and Tsoncho Ganev (Vazrazhdane), expressed skepticism, fearing the creation of new bureaucracy and pressure on traders. On the other hand, Yavor Gechev (Progressive Bulgaria) emphasized that the law is a necessary tool for dealing with market distortions.
What does the CPC say?
Chairman of the CPC Alexander Kolyachev stated that the changes are part of the preparations for the introduction of the euro and will provide the regulator with better tools for transparency. According to him, the strengthened sanctions regime will discipline market entities and protect the interests of the end consumer.