Legislative changes for national security protection
The Economic Policy Committee of the National Assembly adopted at first reading amendments to the Law on the Administrative Regulation of Economic Activities Related to Oil and Oil Products. The bill was submitted by Daniel Parushev and a group of members of parliament.
The need for the changes stems from Decision No. 12 of 2026 of the Constitutional Court, which repealed the provisions regarding a special commercial manager.
Why are the changes necessary?
- Critical infrastructure: "Lukoil Aviation Bulgaria" and "Lukoil Bulgaria Bunker" are affected.
- Strategic importance: Both companies control over 85% of the aviation fuel market and logistics in major ports.
- State control: The goal is for the state to maintain tools for oversight and intervention in the event of a threat to energy security.
Debates and guarantees
During the discussion, MP Martin Dimitrov expressed concerns about excessive state intervention. The Ministry of Economy assured that the provisions apply strictly to critical infrastructure sites defined in Council of Ministers Decree No. 181 and cannot be applied arbitrarily.
The issue of the upcoming expiration of the derogation for Russian oil was also discussed, with the department confirming that a response is expected from the British authorities regarding the submitted extension request.