Sofia, January 15 (BTA) - From January 1, 2026, a new regulation on the import of energy-intensive goods from countries outside the European Union (EU) will come into force, announced the Ministry of Environment and Water (MOEW). This regulation is part of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), introduced two years ago for the EU customs territory.
CBAM aims to create a level playing field between European producers who pay for their carbon emissions and importers from third countries. "The idea of this mechanism is that since European companies pay for their carbon emissions when producing goods, importers should also be taxed to ensure fair competition", explain officials from MOEW.
The regulation will affect importers of cement, iron, steel, aluminum, fertilizers, electricity, and hydrogen from countries outside the EU. From the beginning of 2026, these importers will need to have the status of "Authorized Declarant" to carry out their activities. To obtain this status, companies must contact the Executive Environment Agency (EEA).
After obtaining the status, importers will be required to declare the amount of carbon dioxide emitted during the production of the imported goods, as well as provide information on the calculation methodology. For each declared amount of emissions, a corresponding number of certificates will need to be purchased, with the price to be determined by the European Commission.
The mechanism covers all companies importing goods from third countries into the EU customs territory, with the exception of imports from Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland, as well as the territories of Büsingen, Heligoland, Livigno, Ceuta, and Melilla.
It is important to note that no exemptions or transitional mechanisms are envisaged for Bulgaria in the implementation of CBAM. Therefore, the EEA is planning a series of meetings with industry organizations to support the effective implementation of the mechanism in the country.
To prepare businesses for the upcoming changes, MOEW will provide regular information on each subsequent stage of CBAM implementation in Bulgaria. Importing companies can obtain additional information on the ministry's official website.
The European Commission has also launched a public consultation initiative, within which citizens and businesses can share their opinions on a number of EU policies, including proposals to amend the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism.
The introduction of this mechanism is part of the EU's broader strategy to reduce global carbon emissions and promote more sustainable production practices both within the Union and beyond.