Introduction of the euro: discussions in Dobrich, Etropole, and Elena

A series of key information events dedicated to the introduction of the euro have sparked lively discussions in a number of cities across the country. Part of a large-scale National Information Campaign, the meetings were held in Dobrich, Etropole, and Elena, bringing together representatives of institutions and citizens seeking clarification on the upcoming change.

The campaign, which is a joint initiative of a number of responsible institutions, including the Ministry of Finance, the Bulgarian National Bank, the Ministry of Economy and Industry, the Commission for Consumer Protection, and the National Revenue Agency, aims to provide clear, detailed, and, above all, reliable information on all key stages and deadlines in the process of joining the euro area. Among the most important topics discussed were the potential benefits of membership, the currency conversion process, and the specifics of electronic payments and tax declarations.

The euro as a catalyst for the economy and tourism

In Dobrich, Minister of Tourism Miroslav Borshosh stated unequivocally that "entering the euro area is the most awaited, wanted, and desired thing for tourism". During the meeting, the minister emphasized that the tourism sector has long operated with the European currency, as it is "familiar, stable, and strong". He added that the euro facilitates international markets and removes the need for complex calculations and lengthy persuasion.

Borshosh highlighted the two key factors for a successful destination: security and image. "Destination security is a general feeling that you are going to a country where things are calm—starting with physical security and reaching to finances", he explained. According to him, membership in the Schengen area and the euro area are the two big positives for Bulgaria in the field of tourism.

Security and predictability for businesses and citizens

In support of his colleague, Minister of Agriculture and Food Dr. Georgi Tahov also highlighted the advantages of the euro, defining it as "the currency of stability, trust, and predictability". He pointed out that adopting the euro will send a clear signal that Bulgaria is a reliable partner in the European Union and on the international stage.

"Our entry into the euro area will bring real benefits to businesses and citizens"

Tahov also said, listing specific advantages such as greater price transparency, facilitated trade, and easier access to investments. He predicted that the change will create a more secure and predictable economic environment that will encourage growth and strengthen confidence in Bulgaria as a natural economic partner.

The mayor of Dobrich, Yordan Yordanov, also joined the discussion, stating that membership in the euro area is as significant as the country's accession to the EU and Schengen. He assured that the municipality is prepared with all the necessary measures but urged citizens to be critical of information and not to succumb to misleading claims.

Meetings and questions in Elena and Etropole

In Elena, the meeting was held in the presence of about ten people, mainly representatives of local institutions and citizens. The discussion, led by experts from the Commission for Consumer Protection (CCP) and the National Revenue Agency (NRA), lasted nearly an hour. Among the questions asked were those about electronic payments and the announcement of product prices. The experts explained that after January 1, all bank card transactions will be automatically converted to euros, and the dual display of prices is mandatory for all merchants.

The meeting in Etropole, which lasted about 45 minutes, gathered nearly 30 citizens, but they did not ask any questions to the experts. Valya Krumova, director of the NRA - Sofia region, explained that the agency has been studying the most frequently asked questions from businesses and citizens for several months. She emphasized that tax declarations for the reporting period of 2025 will be submitted in levs, even if this happens in 2026, when the euro has already been introduced. Antonia Krasteva from the CCP drew special attention to the correct and unambiguous dual display of prices, which will continue for one year.

Currency conversion and pensions: clarifications from the NSI

During the meeting in Dobrich, important questions related to the National Social Security Institute (NSSI) were also addressed. Velin Peev from the Ministry of Finance emphasized that the currency conversion will be carried out according to the exact mathematical rule and that the law provides for the process's automaticity. He warned that anyone calling for renegotiating contracts because of the currency change is likely trying to mislead citizens.

The manager of the NSSI, Vesela Karaivanova, announced that the institute's Budget 2026 will be in euros, which represents a serious challenge. She pointed out that the NSSI has been preparing for this transition since 2020 because it must ensure that the information reaches all eligible persons, including those in the most remote settlements. Karaivanova emphasized the importance of awareness, especially for pensioners, noting that 30% of them live in homes for the elderly, 15% are in prisons, and another 10-15% live with the help of social assistants. She stressed that "it is extremely important for them to be informed in time and that this happens through the institution that guarantees the income from their working life".