In 2023, Bulgaria’s exports totaled 86.9 billion leva, reflecting a decline of 6.5% compared to the previous year. The National Statistical Institute reports that the most significant growth in exports occurred in January, with an 18% increase, while the steepest decline was seen in June, dropping by 15.5%. The sector that experienced the highest growth…
This summer is shaping up to be better for Bulgarian tourism compared to the last pre-pandemic year, 2019, according to the Minister of Tourism Evtim Miloshev. However, current statistics indicate that while Bulgarian tourists are declining, the number of foreign visitors is on the rise. In the peak summer season, 7,500 fewer Bulgarians visited the…
In preparation for the introduction of the euro, Bulgaria is updating its payment services and systems to align with the new currency regime, as outlined in the National Plan. Economist Rumen Galabinov highlighted that this preparation involved ensuring technical readiness for converting from lev to euro. The conversion rate of 1.95583 will be adhered to,…
For five consecutive years, McDonald’s has maintained its position as one of Bulgaria’s top employers, consistently earning recognition in the Hewitt/AON survey. The company has also twice been ranked among the top 10 employers in Central and Eastern Europe. In the “Large Companies” category of Bulgaria’s “Best Employers” survey, McDonald’s secured first place in 2006…
As Latvia is moving to ban Russian instructions in ATMs, Lithuania is not considering similar measures. Banks say the Russian-language option is used by about 8% of their clients. The Latvian parliament is one vote away from banning instructions in Russian in the country’s ATMs. If the motion comes through, users will only be able…
According to the latest Eurostat figures, Bulgaria has emerged as one of the top five EU countries in terms of growth in tourist overnight stays in the second quarter of 2024. This period shows a marked increase compared to the same timeframe in 2023, underscoring Bulgaria’s appeal to both domestic and international visitors. During this…
The first large privatization auction has been completed in the Prozorro.Sale system, selling Kyiv-based Ukraine Hotel for UAH 2.5 billion. The auction results were published on the website of Prozorro.Sale JSC. On September 18, the first auction was held as part of large privatization. Four-star Ukraine Hotel, situated in downtown Kyiv, was offered for sale.…