Economy
Current economic news — markets, investments, business, inflation, and financial policies in the country and globally.
The global business faces challenges of multilateralism and artificial intelligence.
The Chairman of the Bulgarian Industrial and Commercial Chamber (BCCI), Tsvetan Simeonov, participated in the 113th regular session of the International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva. The main topics discussed at the forum included the strengthening multilateralism, the impact of artificial intelligence on business and the future of work, as well as the adoption of the International Organisation of Employers' (IOE) strategic work plan for 2025.
The Minister of Finance and the Managing Director of the IMF discussed Bulgaria's accession to the Eurozone.
The Minister of Finance Temelina Petkova and the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund Kristalina Georgieva held a meeting, during which they discussed Bulgaria's future accession to the Eurozone. The two expressed support for this strategic goal of the country and the need for an information campaign to familiarize citizens with the upcoming changes.
The Commission for Consumer Protection warns traders of strict sanctions for violations of consumer rights.
The Commission for Consumer Protection (CCP) warns all traders that violations of consumer rights, including misleading and applying unfair trade practices, will be sanctioned with the full rigor of the law. The CCP reports established cases of systematic charging of fees for packaging that was not requested, as well as misleading customers to pay higher prices.
Bilateral trade between Bulgaria and India reaches new heights
The bilateral trade exchange between Bulgaria and India reached 424 million dollars in 2024, demonstrating a positive dynamic in the relations between the two countries. Deputy Minister Doncho Barbalov emphasized the importance of key sectors such as high technology, pharmaceuticals and agribusiness for the future expansion of cooperation.
Bulgarian-Iraqi partnership in agriculture is gaining momentum
The ministers of agriculture of Bulgaria and Iraq signed a Memorandum of Understanding, which will deepen cooperation in the field of agriculture and food. The document will stimulate the exchange of knowledge, scientific achievements, and trade in agricultural goods between the two countries.
Repair activities on the Trakia Motorway require temporary traffic restrictions in the direction of Sofia.
Due to the need to apply horizontal markings, traffic on the Trakia Motorway in the section in the Plovdiv region in the direction of Sofia is restricted. Drivers must comply with the temporary traffic organization and drive with increased caution.
Burgas and Gdansk are expanding their partnership, focusing on connectivity and tourism.
Representatives of the Pomeranian Voivodeship and the city of Gdansk visited Burgas in June 2023, signing a number of bilateral cooperation agreements. Now a delegation from Burgas will visit Gdansk to mark the opening of the new season of direct flights between the two cities, which will start on June 2, 2025. The development of air connectivity is a key factor in promoting tourism, business, cultural and academic contacts.
The irrigation systems are ready for a full irrigation season in 2025
The state-owned company "Irrigation Systems" EAD announced its readiness for the upcoming irrigation season. The reservoirs in the country are filled to 43%, and water deliveries for irrigation are expected to reach 334,000 decares, with a potential for increase.
Rail passengers in the EU receive strengthened protection of their rights
Regulation (EC) No 1371/2007 of the European Parliament and of the Council on rail passengers' rights and obligations entered into force on 3 December 2009. This regulation guarantees the rights of passengers and improves the quality and efficiency of rail services. It regulates the rights of passengers, including the provision of information, accessibility for people with disabilities, compensation for delays and cancellations of trains.
Road repair activities on Motorway I-5 between Stara Zagora and Kazanlak
The Road Infrastructure Agency is undertaking repair activities on the 5-kilometer section of Motorway I-5 between Stara Zagora and Zmeyovo, with the aim of improving traffic safety. Traffic will be two-way in the lane towards Kazanlak, and after the completion of the repairs, it will shift to the lane towards Stara Zagora.
Changes in the route of bus line No. 9 due to repair work
The management of the city transport operator "Bургасбус" announces a temporary change in the route of bus line No. 9 due to construction and repair work on Odrin Street in Burgas. The buses will pass through an alternative route, and the "Otets Paisiy" stop will not be served.
Energy Minister Stankov: Accelerating key infrastructure projects is among our top priorities
The Minister of Energy Zhecho Stankov inspected the progress in the construction of the Vertical Gas Corridor, which will increase the capacity for natural gas transmission in Southeast Europe. The project, supported by seven countries, is key to ensuring security and diversity of energy supplies in the region.
The Bulgarian-Hungarian economic cooperation is gaining strength despite global challenges
The Third Plenary Session of the Joint Commission for Economic Cooperation between Bulgaria and Hungary concluded with the signing of a bilateral protocol, confirming the strategic partnership between the two countries. The bilateral trade turnover in 2024 reached 2.29 billion euros, with Bulgarian exports to Hungary recording a growth of over 4%. Ministers Dilov and Szijjártó discussed opportunities for deepening cooperation in key sectors such as mechanical engineering, automotive industry, green technologies, and others.
New wave of grant aid for patents and new plant varieties for small and medium-sized enterprises
The Patent Office of Bulgaria and the SME Fund of the European Union Intellectual Property Office announce the resumption of financial support programs for filing national and European patents, as well as for registration of new plant varieties. The vouchers will cover up to 75% of the fees, with additional assistance for legal costs for European patents.
The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry is strengthening its international cooperation with Germany.
The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) welcomed a delegation from the Enterprise Europe Network Saxony-Anhalt, Germany, with the aim of establishing long-term relations in key economic sectors. The two parties discussed opportunities for partnership in the fields of innovation, digitalization, green technologies, and maritime innovations.