Bulgaria has met the inflation criterion required for entry into the Eurozone, with an average annual inflation rate of 2.6% over the last 12 months. This marks the fulfillment of the final condition needed for the country to adopt the euro, according to Asen Vassilev, co-chairman of We Continue the Change – Democratic Bulgaria (WCC-DB).…
Bulgaria’s National Statistical Institute reported that inflation in 2024 stood at 2.2%, a slight increase from the previous year. The inflation rate in December 2024 was recorded at 0.4%. The average annual inflation for the period from January to December 2024, compared to the same period in 2023, reached 2.4%. Among the various categories, the…
In 2024 Bulgaria’s electricity sector faced significant challenges, with a sharp decline in exports and a rise in domestic consumption. The country’s energy production decreased by 5% compared to the previous year, largely due to reduced output from coal-fired thermal power plants. However, renewable energy sources, particularly solar power, saw notable growth. Despite producing record…
Businesses in Bulgaria remain on high alert, described as “code yellow”, due to persistently high electricity prices. Vasil Velev, Chairman of the Board of the Association of Industrial Capital (AIKB), stated that protests had been postponed following assurances from parliamentary groups. They have pledged support for legislative provisions that would empower the Ministry of Energy…
A recent survey within Bulgaria’s financial sector reveals a growing concern among businesses regarding employment levels, with many expecting a decline in new hires. The survey, which includes representatives from commercial banks, investment intermediaries, pension insurance companies, and management firms, highlights a shift in sentiment compared to previous reports. While 53% of financial intermediaries expect…
Several banks in Bulgaria have recently announced changes to their fees, particularly for cash withdrawals and deposits. These adjustments, which were communicated to customers in advance through their websites and notifications, would take effect on various dates. Customers have been informed at least two months ahead of time, as required by law, about the upcoming…
Foreign Minister Ivan Kondov has expressed optimism about the potential abolition of US visas for Bulgarian citizens. In a written response to MP Martin Dimitrov, Kondov outlined the progress and challenges in meeting the criteria for inclusion in the US Visa Waiver Program. The minister noted that Bulgaria must achieve a visa refusal rate of…