Euro Opens New Horizons for Sustainable Tourism in Bulgaria

In the context of Bulgaria's upcoming adoption of the euro, experts and representatives of the tourism sector discussed the potential benefits for the development of sustainable tourism in the country. At a discussion held at the Ministry of Environment and Water (MOEW), Deputy Minister of Tourism Irena Georgieva emphasized that the introduction of the single European currency will create a more favorable environment for attracting foreign investments in sustainable tourist facilities.

The euro will create a more favorable environment for attracting foreign investments in sustainable tourist facilities - from energy-efficient hotels to eco-villages and educational centers. There are increasingly more such facilities in the country

Georgieva stated during the forum titled "The Euro, the Environment, and Sustainable Tourism: New Horizons in a Common Currency".

The event attracted the attention of mayors and representatives of municipalities from across the country, who gathered to discuss the effects of introducing the euro on the development of sustainable tourism and the preservation of natural resources.

Georgieva emphasized that easy access to Bulgaria and greater price predictability will attract tourists, especially to lesser-known regions of the country. She highlighted the possibility of encouraging smaller groups of individual tourists to visit Bulgaria, which could lead to a more even distribution of tourist flow and reduce pressure on popular destinations.

The Deputy Minister presented impressive statistical data, highlighting the importance of the euro on a global scale:

The euro is the preferred currency for nearly 40 percent of cross-border payments worldwide and for almost half of the European Union's exports globally

These figures underscore the potential positive impact on Bulgarian tourism after the adoption of the euro in January next year.

Georgieva drew a parallel with the positive effect of Bulgaria's accession to the Schengen area, pointing out the significant increase in tourist visits:

For the period January - May 2025, nearly 2.7 million tourist registrations were recorded in accommodation establishments. Over 6 million overnight stays were realized. The growth in tourists compared to the same period in 2024 is 6.8 percent, and in overnight stays - 5.2 percent

she reported.

Despite global challenges, tourism remains a key factor for economic development and cultural rapprochement between nations, Georgieva emphasized. She stressed the importance of building a positive image of the country, especially in the context of adopting the euro.

Bulgaria's accession to the eurozone is not only an economic process but also an opportunity to build a new identity for our country in a European and global context

concluded the Deputy Minister, adding that the tourism sector accepts this process naturally and without mistrust.

The experts at the forum united around the opinion that the introduction of the euro will bring not only economic benefits but will also stimulate the development of sustainable tourism practices, contributing to the preservation of Bulgaria's natural resources and cultural heritage.