All state institutions are mobilized to ensure a smooth and transparent transition to the euro. This assurance came from Hristo Uzunov from the National Revenue Agency (NRA) during an information meeting in Nessebar, organized by the Consumer Protection Commission (CPC). The atmosphere in the hall was filled with attention as those present listened to the words of the specialists.
"We call on citizens not to trust rumors, but to inform themselves only from official sources," said Uzunov. He emphasized the importance of receiving information only from verified sources during this period of changes.
The NRA, together with the CPC, the Bulgarian National Bank (BNB), and the Ministry of Finance, will undertake strict and constant control to prevent any attempts at fraud or price speculation during the introduction of the euro.
Checks will be carried out daily, including in small settlements, where people often rely on unverified information. These efforts are aimed at guaranteeing fairness for all citizens, regardless of their place of residence. "Every signal will be considered immediately," Uzunov stressed.
The Consumer Protection Commission reminded that the main principle that will guide the transition is the protection of consumers and ensuring clear and correct information about prices. It is crucial that everyone is informed correctly. All commercial and tourist facilities will be required to display prices in both leva and euros, using the fixed exchange rate of 1 euro for 1.95583 leva. This double indication will remain in effect until August 2026.
Prices must be indicated side by side, with the same font, size, and color, to avoid any attempts to mislead consumers. "We call on people to read the labels carefully and to report irregularities," said an expert from the CPC.
Exceptions are provided for taxi meters and excise goods, where double indication is technically not possible. In these cases, the exchange rate will be displayed in a prominent place in the respective facility.
During the first month after the introduction of the euro, payments can be made in both leva and euros. However, the change will be returned only in euros, unless there are not enough euros available in the cash register.
The CPC explicitly emphasized that all contracts, deposits, and accounts will be automatically converted to euros without changing the terms and without loss of value.
If citizens have suspicions of abuse by traders, they are urged to file a complaint. An electronic calculator for calculating amounts in leva and euros is available on the evroto.bg website, as well as a platform for submitting complaints. "Checks will be carried out daily by our teams and by colleagues in the NRA and local authorities," the experts stated.
"Our goal is clear - no fraud, no speculation, and no disruptions for citizens," concluded Hristo Uzunov. A palpable feeling of confidence and determination was felt in the hall, as those present seemed hopeful about the measures taken.