The Chinese Puzzle: Opportunities for Bulgaria or Just an Expensive Game?

February 3, 2026 - Times are such that trade is more complex than ever. China, with its huge market, remains a magnet for many companies. But what is the real situation for Bulgarian businesses there? Whether this is a promise of success or just an expensive game depends on many factors.

Betting on the Future: The Key is State Support

Desislava Doncheva, chair of the Bulgarian-Chinese Chamber for Industrial Development, emphasized in a video interview for Bloomberg TV Bulgaria that Bulgarian companies have the potential to enter the Chinese market. But... this will not be easy. Solid state support is needed, because otherwise it's too expensive.

She drew attention to professional education in China, which is developing rapidly after high school and is closely related to business. According to her, it is in this area that fruitful cooperation between the two countries can be found. But is this enough?

The Imbalance in Trade: What's happening with exports?

Trade between Bulgaria and China is growing, but things are not so rosy. There is an imbalance that is noticeable. We import more than we export. Doncheva points out that serious state support is needed to change this situation. But what exactly should this support be? And will there be a result?

Of course, there are successes. Cosmetics, wine, and rose oil have found a place in the Chinese market. But the number of companies is small. What can be done to change this?

"A Basket of Products" or Individual Efforts?

Doncheva suggests that Bulgaria should present itself as a "basket of products", and not through individual companies. Perhaps this is the way to increase visibility and build greater trust. But is this realistic? And how exactly would it look?

Global Changes and New Standards

Global trade is entering a new stage. Political decisions and regional regulations play an increasingly important role. China is developing rapidly, setting new standards in technology, digital payments, and industrial modernization. This opens doors, but also requires adaptation. Bulgarian companies must be prepared for new rules.

Artificial intelligence is emerging as a key tool for cooperation and competitiveness. How exactly will AI be used, and how will it affect Bulgarian businesses in China? This is a question that requires serious attention.

Opportunities and Challenges: What's Next?

There is potential, but there are also obstacles. State support is key, but what exactly should it include? How can Bulgarian companies adapt to the new rules? Trade with China is a complex game, and not everyone will win. What will happen to those who fail to adapt?