Introduction of the euro: SMEs in Bulgaria will be the biggest beneficiaries

The introduction of the euro will be most beneficial for small and medium-sized businesses

Sofia, Bulgaria — Small and medium-sized enterprises, defined as the backbone of the Bulgarian economy, will become the biggest beneficiaries of the introduction of the euro. This was stated today by the Minister of Economy and Industry, Petar Dilov, during an informational meeting in Plovdiv, which was held as part of the large-scale National Information Campaign for the Introduction of the Euro in Bulgaria. The meeting attracted widespread interest from business circles who were seeking clarity on the upcoming change, and the atmosphere contained both hopes and some concerns.

Minister Dilov's main argument was that the elimination of currency exchange costs will bring direct savings for small and medium-sized firms. In his speech, he emphasized that the single currency will open up new horizons by facilitating these enterprises' access to the vast European markets and ensuring greater security for contracts concluded with foreign partners. According to him, this will free up additional resources that can be directed toward investments, innovations, and business expansion, thereby stimulating growth and competitiveness.

"We are strictly monitoring the currency conversion to prevent an artificial increase in prices," he stated, adding that there will be a constant monitoring of basic goods and services. The public will be regularly informed about the progress and results of this control. To ensure a smooth transition, the dual display of prices will continue until August 8, 2026. Until October 8 of this year, the control will be entirely preventive, so that traders have the opportunity to adapt to the new requirements calmly.

Petar Dilov presented the euro not only as a financial unit but as a symbol of stability, trust, and a common European direction, uniting over 400 million people in 20 countries. He referred to the experience of countries that have already introduced the euro, pointing out that incomes there grow faster, economies become more competitive and attractive for foreign investments, and businesses gain new opportunities for growth and partnerships. The accession of Bulgaria to the eurozone, according to him, will strengthen the country's economy, provide additional security for businesses and citizens, and facilitate trade, travel, and investments. Dilov emphasized that the introduction of the euro is also an act of trust, directed toward Bulgaria and its financial discipline.

"This trust must be justified through transparency, dialogue, and an honest conversation with the public," he noted, stressing the importance of responsible management of the process.

The minister pointed out that the first positive effects of the upcoming accession are already being felt. He highlighted that even before the official date for the introduction of the euro, January 1, 2026, Bulgaria has received an increase in its credit rating. For the first time since 2007, the rating has reached these high levels, which, according to Dilov, is a clear and categorical sign of the trust of international financial markets in the Bulgarian economy. This fact was welcomed as a strong argument in favor of eurozone membership.