The "Botas" scandal: Why is Bulgaria paying a high price for gas transit?

For a long time, we were convinced that the agreement with the Turkish company "Botas" was extremely successful for Bulgaria. Today, however, the truth is coming to light: the deal is a heavy burden for the state-owned company "Bulgargaz".

"Bulgargaz" has accumulated over 1 billion BGN in debt and is practically bankrupt because of this 15-year contract, stated Ivaylo Mirchev.

Main critical points:

  • Huge costs: Bulgaria is paying three times more for transit through "Botas" compared to alternative routes via Greece.
  • Unfavorable terms: The contract, which was supposed to be "successful", has effectively pushed the company into bankruptcy.
  • Unanswered questions: Mirchev asks what the Bulgarian side promised Turkey to lead to the signing of such unfavorable clauses.

Negotiations are currently underway to amend the agreement, but it remains unclear what the final terms for Bulgaria will be. Experts are insisting on full transparency regarding the infrastructure projects associated with this contract.