Government Considers Freezing Toll Fees, Inflation, and the 2026 Budget – Highlights from the Finance Minister's Interview

Caretaker Finance Minister Georgi Klysurki announced that the government is considering not increasing toll fees for vehicles over 3.5 tons from April 1st, in an attempt to ease pressure on the transport sector.

In an interview for “Zdravei, Bulgaria“ (Nova TV), he stressed that inflation in Bulgaria is directly related to the prices of oil and fuels. According to him, the average prices are: diesel – around 1.59 euros/liter, gasoline – around 1.43 euros/liter. If prices remain around 1.60 euros, no serious price increases for goods are expected. With an increase, transport services will first become more expensive, which will also reflect on food prices.

Klysurki also touched upon the topic of electricity, noting that the increases are due to producers and energy resources, and compensations can be financed from excess profits in the “Security of the Electricity System“ Fund.

The minister also commented on the progress of the Recovery and Resilience Plan, saying that a request for a fourth payment (1 billion euros) is being prepared. Around 400 million euros of this amount are at risk due to unfulfilled reforms. The total risk could reach 800 million euros.

Regarding public finances, Klysurki explained that the surplus in January and the deficit in February are the result of seasonal factors and higher expenses. He promised regular publication of current data.

Pay in the public sector is uneven, especially in regulatory bodies and the judicial system. In the administration, remuneration is limited by law.

The main priority is the preparation of the 2026 budget, which should achieve balance without increasing taxes, through control over public spending.