Sunny Beach, Bulgaria’s largest seaside resort, is heading into the summer season facing significant operational challenges, with many hotels still closed and those already open struggling with severe staff shortages just days before the first expected tourist arrivals. Industry representatives said that the sector continued to be hit by a shrinking season and growing difficulties…
The European Commission’s spring forecast points to a weaker-than-expected economic outlook for both Bulgaria and the wider eurozone, coupled with higher inflation pressures across the region. According to the report, the slowdown is driven by a mix of fiscal strain in member states and external shocks, including the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which…
The planned construction of Units 7 and 8 at the Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant could generate up to 55 billion euros for Bulgaria’s economy over their operating lifetime, according to project representatives presenting updated progress on the initiative. The briefing, held in Sofia with participation from Kozloduy NPP – New Capacity, Westinghouse, and Hyundai E&C,…
The average gross monthly salary in Bulgaria reached 1,407 euros in the first quarter of 2026, according to preliminary data from the National Statistical Institute (NSI). The figures indicate continued wage growth across the economy, with an increase of 2.8% compared to the previous quarter and a year-on-year rise of 12.7%. On a monthly basis,…
Retail trade across the European Union showed mixed dynamics in March, with Bulgaria standing out as the strongest performer on an annual basis, according to Eurostat data. On a monthly basis, retail sales in the euro area declined by 0.1%, following a 0.3% drop in February. Across the wider European Union, sales rose by 0.5%…
The summer tourist season has started on Bulgaria’s Southern Black Sea coast, with Sunny Beach already seeing strong early occupancy. Some hotels in the resort complex began operating at the end of April and are reporting full capacity, yet industry representatives are warning that rising travel costs, particularly airfares, are beginning to reshape booking patterns…
Bulgaria’s employers’ organization, the Association of Industrial Capital in Bulgaria (AIKB), has taken a firm stance against the current practice of extending public holidays when they fall on weekends, arguing that the system generates significant economic losses and should be reconsidered. According to the group, Bulgaria will observe 12 official public holidays in 2026, all…