Economy
Current economic news — markets, investments, business, inflation, and financial policies in the country and globally.
Restrictions for Heavy Goods Vehicles during Holidays in 2026
Temporary restrictions on the movement of heavy goods vehicles over 12 tonnes will be in place during the holidays in 2026. The measure aims to improve traffic flow and road safety. Motorways and roads are affected.
ATMs to start dispensing euros on January 1st
On January 1st, ATMs in Bulgaria will be loaded with euro banknotes. CEO Nikola Bakalov urges free deposit of levs before the conversion to euros, which will happen automatically.
Business in Bulgaria and Pension Contributions: Concerns for 2026.
The increase in pension contributions in the draft budget for 2026 raises concerns. The Bulgarian-Romanian Chamber of Commerce warns of risks to business and investment. The doubling of the tax on dividends is also worrying.
Repair on Trakia Motorway: Traffic Changes Towards Burgas
Repair work has begun on the Trakia motorway in the section between the 135th and 137th km. Traffic towards Burgas is being rerouted, causing stress and the expectation of traffic jams. Drivers should be careful.
Cigarettes and all tobacco products to increase in price from 2026: new excise rates and expected effect
From January 2026, the prices of cigarettes and other tobacco products in Bulgaria will increase by about 30 stotinki per pack - the reason is the planned increase in excise duties according to European standards.
Denitsa Sacheva: The budget for next year will be discussed
Denitsa Sacheva announced that a meeting of the National Council for Tripartite Cooperation will be held next week to discuss the budget. Employers show understanding of the situation, but have objections to the draft.
Attention! Repair of Trakia Motorway near Plovdiv on November 10th
On November 10th, passengers on the Trakia Motorway near Plovdiv should be careful due to asphalt works. Traffic will be redirected, and lanes will be limited. Observe the restrictions for safe travel.
BNB Unveils the Design of Bulgarian Euro Coins
The Bulgarian National Bank (BNB) presented the design of the euro coins with the Bulgarian national side. The sale of starter kits begins on December 1, 2025, for individuals.
New Sections with Sectional Control on the "Trakia" Motorway
Eight new sections of the republican road network have been certified for sectional speed control. They are located on the "Trakia" motorway in the regions of Pazardzhik, Plovdiv and Stara Zagora. The total number is now 64 sections.
Radev criticizes the 2026 budget, comments on sanctions
President Rumen Radev criticizes the 2026 budget, seeing a lack of vision and the risk of a debt spiral. He also comments on the "Magnitsky" sanctions and the individuals involved, including Borisov and Peevski. Radev warns of attempts to mislead.
Radev on the Burgas Refinery: A Reliable Owner is Needed
President Rumen Radev stressed the need for a secure owner for the refinery in Burgas. State management is considered a last resort, fearing a repeat of the Bulgartabac fate. The decision is crucial for energy security.
Energy Security in the Region: Zhelyazkov and Zelensky Talked
Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky discussed energy security and cooperation. The conversation also touched upon other important topics, including the situation in the Black Sea.
Parliament Rejects Nationalization of Lukoil Neftohim Burgas
The National Assembly rejected the proposal to nationalize Lukoil Neftohim Burgas. The proposal, submitted by MECH, received little support. The debates touched upon energy security and derogation.
What will change with ATMs in Bulgaria with the introduction of the euro
From January 1, 2026, ATMs across the country will only work with euros, and card limits and all balances will be converted automatically. A temporary delay is expected in the first days after the change.
EU Railway Network: Modernization and High-Speed Lines
The European Commission has presented a plan to modernize the EU railway network by 2040. The project includes high-speed lines, reconstruction of the Sofia-Athens route, and the promotion of alternative fuels to reduce environmental impact.