The State versus profiteering: Up to 35% markup on food products

The state declares itself against unfair commercial practices

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy Alexander Pulev stated categorically that the government is not at war with retail chains, but with practices that distort the market. In an interview with the BNR, he emphasized that the goal is to ensure fair prices for the Bulgarian consumer.

"We want to see market prices with a normal markup that is fair – within 20 to 35 percent, as proven in Europe, and not 130 percent," Pulev asserted.

Main government measures:

• Combating 33 unfair practices: Legislative changes aim to limit the methods through which retail chains exert pressure on local producers.
• Coordination unit: A body is being created that will coordinate the work of control and regulatory authorities.
• Competence center: Every week, an indicative "fair price" for basic products will be calculated, based on normal market conditions.
• Active monitoring: The results of inspections will be reported every week, and received reports will be reviewed.

Minister Pulev emphasized that the government stands firmly behind the Bulgarian producer and insists that international chains comply with the rules applicable to every business in the country, regardless of their lobbying resources.