The protection of consumers during the introduction of the euro in Bulgaria - a guarantee of stable prices

Bulgaria received an invitation to join the Eurozone, and Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov promised that there will be price control during the currency conversion. The Chairman of the Consumer Protection Commission (CPC), Dimitar Margaritov, states that this promise is a priority and is supported by legal texts.

Margaritov explains that the CPC is already conducting joint inspections with the National Revenue Agency and the Commission for Protection of Competition to prevent any unfair practices in the market. He emphasizes that the CPC has strong enough powers, including the ability to issue an order to reduce prices if they are unjustifiably high.

According to Margaritov, the results of the inspections so far show honest behavior from traders, but he warns that in case of attempts at unfair practices, immediate fines up to 50,000 leva will be imposed. Consumers can submit signals to the CPC if they notice any irregularities.

The CPC Chairman points out that the introduction of the euro will not lead to price increases, as inflation is driven by other factors. He promises to tour populated areas to dispel people's fears and answer their questions.

Margaritov emphasizes that the control activities of the CPC will not stop even before the final decision on the introduction of the euro in Bulgaria. The goal is to ensure calmness, smoothness, transparency, and predictability for people in this process.

In conclusion, the CPC Chairman expresses confidence that joining the Eurozone will bring security and eliminate risks, as these are some of the richest and most developed countries in Europe. He expects accelerated economic growth and increased incomes after the introduction of the single currency.