The Bulguardian: Bulgarian Expat News and Features

The Bulguardian: Bulgarian Expat News and Features Breaking news and in-depth analysis on Bulgarian business, expat living, and tourism. Your window into Bulgaria's opportunities and culture.

Vasil Levski Sofia Airport Wins 'Best Airport' Award in Europe for 5-15 Million PassengersVasil Levski Sofia Airport has...
25/03/2025

Vasil Levski Sofia Airport Wins 'Best Airport' Award in Europe for 5-15 Million Passengers

Vasil Levski Sofia Airport has been named the "Best Airport in Europe with 5 to 15 million passengers" for 2024. The prestigious award, presented by ACI World and Amadeus, highlights the airport's excellence in passenger satisfaction. The recognition is based on positive traveller feedback, reflecting the high standards of service and the continuous improvements made by SOF Connect, the airport’s operator.

"This award reaffirms our commitment to delivering exceptional service to our passengers," said Jesus Caballero, CEO of SOF Connect. He emphasised that the honour serves as motivation to further enhance the airport’s facilities, with ongoing investments in modernisation, digitalisation, and passenger comfort.

Recent upgrades at Sofia Airport include terminal renovations, improved cleanliness, more efficient navigation, and streamlined security procedures. These enhancements have contributed to a smoother and more enjoyable experience for millions of travellers each year.

The Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards, organised by ACI World in collaboration with Amadeus, are the industry’s leading benchmark for service excellence. The awards are determined through the largest global passenger satisfaction survey, which evaluates over 400 airports in 110 countries. In 2024, nearly 700,000 surveys were completed, resulting in 181 awards for 95 airports worldwide.

The ASQ Awards ceremony will be held on September 10, 2025, at the ACI World Airport Experience Summit in Guangzhou, China. Industry leaders will gather to discuss the future of aviation and advancements in passenger service. This accolade reinforces Sofia Airport’s reputation as a key regional hub dedicated to innovation and top-tier service quality.

Vasil Levski Sofia Airport has been named the “Best Airport in Europe with 5 to 15 million passengers” for 2024. The prestigious award, presented by ACI World and Amadeus, highlights the airport’s excellence in passenger satisfaction. The recognition is based on positive traveller feedback, re...

Bulgaria to Cap Markups and Regulate Prices of Essential GoodsThe Bulgarian government is set to introduce new regulatio...
25/03/2025

Bulgaria to Cap Markups and Regulate Prices of Essential Goods

The Bulgarian government is set to introduce new regulations aimed at controlling the prices of 22 essential goods by capping markups and tightening restrictions on store promotions. These measures are part of a proposed law on the agri-food chain, presented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food, and will include penalties for non-compliance.

Before implementation, the Council of Ministers will finalize the list of 22 products subject to these controls. The measures are intended as temporary crisis interventions and will remain in effect for one year.

The Minister of Agriculture emphasised the government's role in safeguarding consumers while ensuring fair conditions for both producers and retailers. He clarified that these regulations are not designed to target businesses but rather to create a more stable and balanced market environment.

Another key provision in the draft law requires large retail chains with more than 10 stores to ensure that at least 50% of the food products they sell come from Bulgarian producers. This initiative aims to support local agriculture and strengthen market stability.

The Bulgarian government is set to introduce new regulations aimed at controlling the prices of 22 essential goods by capping markups and tightening restrictions on store promotions. These measures are part of a proposed law on the agri-food chain, presented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food,....

Bulgaria’s Economic Growth Surpasses Expectations; Inflation Holds Key to Eurozone EntryBulgaria's economy exceeded proj...
25/03/2025

Bulgaria’s Economic Growth Surpasses Expectations; Inflation Holds Key to Eurozone Entry

Bulgaria's economy exceeded projections in the final quarter of 2024, expanding by 3.4% year-over-year, according to preliminary data from the National Statistical Institute (NSI). This strong performance brought the country’s total economic growth for the year to 2.8%. UBB Chief Economist Emil Kalchev attributed this growth primarily to final consumption, which increased by 4.3% in real terms, representing 77.8% of GDP. While investments declined by 1.1%, their relatively small GDP share of 17.2% limited their impact. Net exports also contributed positively, adding around 3.5% to GDP, despite a slight dip in exports and a minor rise in imports.

On the production front, the key drivers of growth were the services, construction, and industrial sectors. Services, which dominate Bulgaria’s economy with a 64.2% GDP share, expanded by 3%. Construction recorded the highest growth at 5.2%, though its smaller share of 3.6% in GDP tempered its overall effect. The industrial sector rebounded from a 5.4% contraction in 2023 to post a 1.2% gain. However, agriculture shrank by 7%, though its modest 2.8% share in GDP meant its impact on overall growth was limited.

The services sector saw widespread gains, with government services, education, healthcare, and social work achieving the highest growth at 5.5%. Trade, transport, warehousing, and hospitality followed, expanding by 3.5%. The financial and insurance industries grew at a steadier 2.9%. Other sectors, including culture, sports, real estate, and scientific research, posted modest gains between 0.5% and 0.8%.

Kalchev noted that Bulgaria is nearing compliance with the price stability requirement for eurozone entry, with a marginal 0.1 percentage point gap in average inflation over the past 12 months, based on Eurostat data. In light of this progress, Bulgaria has formally requested special convergence reports from the European Commission (EC) and the European Central Bank (ECB). Inflation data from February to April will be pivotal in determining whether Bulgaria meets the final criteria for eurozone accession.

Bulgaria’s economy exceeded projections in the final quarter of 2024, expanding by 3.4% year-over-year, according to preliminary data from the National Statistical Institute (NSI). This strong performance brought the country’s total economic growth for the year to 2.8%. UBB Chief Economist Emil ...

Bulgaria Reports One of the EU’s Lowest Job Vacancy Rates in Late 2024In the final quarter of 2024, Bulgaria ranked amon...
25/03/2025

Bulgaria Reports One of the EU’s Lowest Job Vacancy Rates in Late 2024

In the final quarter of 2024, Bulgaria ranked among the EU countries with the lowest job vacancy rates, standing at just 0.7%. Poland and Romania reported the same rate, highlighting a regional trend of limited labour market openings. The overall EU job vacancy rate remained steady at 2.3%, unchanged from the previous quarter and lower than the 2.6% recorded in late 2023. Within the euro area, the vacancy rate also held firm at 2.5%, a decline from 2.9% in the same period the previous year.

Among EU member states, Belgium and the Netherlands had the highest job vacancy rates at 4.1%, followed by Austria at 3.6%. In contrast, Bulgaria's job market showed little fluctuation, with its vacancy rate remaining close to the 0.8% recorded in the third quarter of 2024. The services sector in Bulgaria reported a 0.7% job vacancy rate, while industry and construction stood at 0.6%, mirroring figures from both the previous quarter and the fourth quarter of 2023.

Eurostat data further indicated that job vacancy rates increased in four EU nations—Denmark, Spain, Croatia, and Malta—each seeing a marginal rise of 0.1 percentage points over the past year. In contrast, the most significant declines were recorded in Germany, which saw a 0.7-point drop, followed by Greece (down 0.6 points) and France and Austria (each down 0.5 points).

In the final quarter of 2024, Bulgaria ranked among the EU countries with the lowest job vacancy rates, standing at just 0.7%. Poland and Romania reported the same rate, highlighting a regional trend of limited labour market openings. The overall EU job vacancy rate remained steady at 2.3%, unchange...

EU Unveils Bold Defense Strategy: White Paper and ReArm Europe Plan for 2030The European Commission has introduced its W...
25/03/2025

EU Unveils Bold Defense Strategy: White Paper and ReArm Europe Plan for 2030

The European Commission has introduced its White Paper for European Defense – Readiness 2030, along with the ReArm Europe Plan, a comprehensive initiative aimed at strengthening Europe’s defence capabilities and industrial base while ensuring long-term security. This ambitious strategy marks a significant shift toward a more proactive European defence policy, with a strong emphasis on supporting Ukraine and reinforcing the continent’s military infrastructure.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasised that the traditional peace dividends are over, warning that Europe’s past security framework can no longer be taken for granted. She called for increased defence investment to enhance military capabilities, foster innovation, and establish a unified European defence market. According to von der Leyen, a stronger European defence sector is essential to addressing vulnerabilities, particularly in light of Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine.

The White Paper for European Defense outlines specific measures to close Europe’s defence capability gaps. It advocates for collective procurement to strengthen the European defence industry, deeper integration of Ukrainian and European military production, and enhanced military mobility. The plan also highlights the need to reinforce borders with Russia and Belarus while incorporating disruptive technologies such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing to modernise the defence sector.

Alongside the White Paper, the ReArm Europe Plan introduces a sweeping €800 billion investment initiative. A key aspect of the plan is the activation of the national escape clause in the Stability and Growth Pact, granting EU member states greater flexibility to increase defence spending without violating fiscal rules. This provision allows governments to invest up to 1.5% of their GDP per year for four years, ensuring long-term stability and growth in the defence industry.

Additionally, the European Commission has launched the Security Action for Europe (SAFE), a funding mechanism designed to help member states scale up defence investments through joint procurement. SAFE aims to raise up to €150 billion, which will be allocated for purchasing essential military equipment and improving interoperability within the EU’s defence framework.

To further support defence innovation, the ReArm Europe Plan seeks to attract private investment by leveraging the European Investment Bank (EIB). This approach will provide financial backing for security projects and stimulate technological advancements in the defence sector. By combining public and private funding, the EU aims to strengthen its industrial base while ensuring long-term security.

EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas underscored the importance of collective defence efforts, stating that Europe must invest in security at the level it values it. She stressed that maintaining a strong stance against aggressors requires unity and sustained financial commitment, particularly in assisting Ukraine.

Commissioner for Defense and Space Andrius Kubilius reiterated that Europe can no longer afford passivity in matters of security. He described the new strategy as a decisive turning point in the EU’s defence posture, reinforcing its global standing and collective security. Similarly, Commissioner for Economy and Productivity Valdis Dombrovskis highlighted that the initiative will not only strengthen defence but also drive economic growth, create jobs, and spur innovation while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

With the unveiling of the White Paper for European Defense and the ReArm Europe Plan, the EU is taking a historic step toward securing its sovereignty and technological leadership in an increasingly volatile world. This bold strategy positions Europe as a stronger, more resilient force on the global stage, ready to meet future security challenges head-on.

The European Commission has introduced its White Paper for European Defense – Readiness 2030, along with the ReArm Europe Plan, a comprehensive initiative aimed at strengthening Europe’s defence capabilities and industrial base while ensuring long-term security. This ambitious strategy marks a s...

Bulgaria Aims to Become a Leading Arms Exporter, Says PM ZhelyazkovPrime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov has reaffirmed Bulgar...
25/03/2025

Bulgaria Aims to Become a Leading Arms Exporter, Says PM Zhelyazkov

Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov has reaffirmed Bulgaria’s ambition to transform its defence industry from an arms importer to a major global exporter. Speaking with Bulgarian journalists in Brussels, he underscored the importance of Bulgaria strengthening its role in the European defence sector and positioning itself as a key supplier in the market.

Zhelyazkov is attending the European Council summit, where discussions will centre on the European Commission’s White Paper on European Defense. The agenda also includes aid to Ukraine, a topic on which Bulgaria has remained firm in its stance. The prime minister reiterated that Bulgaria is considering providing in-kind assistance, aligning with the voluntary approach advocated by the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas. Her initiative aims to double military aid to Ukraine this year, reaching a total of €40 billion.

At the same time, Zhelyazkov emphasised Bulgaria’s opposition to diverting funds from the Common Agricultural Policy, cohesion funds, and internal security allocations toward military spending. He noted that Bulgaria shares this stance with several EU nations that rely on cohesion funds and view such reallocation as detrimental to economic stability.

On the national defence front, Bulgaria is developing an investment strategy to integrate with European defence initiatives. Some elements have already been approved in a closed parliamentary session. The prime minister highlighted the necessity of improving coordination between public and private defence enterprises to secure maximum financial backing from EU funding mechanisms.

Domestically, Zhelyazkov voiced confidence in obtaining parliamentary approval for the national budget following talks with coalition MPs. He also addressed Bulgaria’s eurozone aspirations, anticipating a favourable convergence report between May and June. The government expects support from pro-European parties, while opposition from nationalist groups such as "Revival," MECH, and "Greatness" remains strong.

Regarding security concerns, Zhelyazkov reassured European leaders of Bulgaria’s commitment to protecting EU institutions within its borders. His remarks followed the February 22 attack on the House of Europe in Sofia during a protest against the euro organised by "Revival." European Parliament President Roberta Metsola had raised concerns, and Zhelyazkov pledged that those responsible for the vandalism would face legal consequences.

Additionally, the prime minister commented on the death of a Bulgarian citizen in Gaza. Bulgaria has formally requested clarification, with Foreign Minister Georg Georgiev discussing the matter with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar. Israel has stated that no airstrikes took place in the area at the time, and Bulgaria continues to seek further details, treating the case as a priority. Zhelyazkov also referenced past terrorism incidents affecting Bulgaria, likely alluding to the 2012 Hezbollah attack at Burgas airport, which resulted in the deaths of five Israeli tourists and a Bulgarian bus driver.

Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov has reaffirmed Bulgaria’s ambition to transform its defence industry from an arms importer to a major global exporter. Speaking with Bulgarian journalists in Brussels, he underscored the importance of Bulgaria strengthening its role in the European defence sector an...

EU Increases Incentives to Attract Top US Scientists with €2 Million GrantsEuropean Commissioner for Start-ups, Research...
25/03/2025

EU Increases Incentives to Attract Top US Scientists with €2 Million Grants

European Commissioner for Start-ups, Research, and Innovation Ekaterina Zaharieva has urged the European Research Council (ERC) to boost funding for elite scientists relocating from the United States. The proposed increase would double the grant from €1 million to €2 million per researcher for 2026 and 2027, aiming to lure top talent to Europe. Zaharieva’s office confirmed these plans in response to an inquiry from Bulgarian media outlet Club Z.

This initiative aligns with the European Commission’s broader strategy to capitalize on research and education funding reductions in the US. Reports from Politico indicate that Bulgaria and 11 other EU nations are actively exploring ways to attract American-based researchers, demonstrating Europe’s commitment to strengthening its scientific and technological landscape.

Zaharieva emphasised the critical role of researchers in advancing Europe’s innovation ecosystem. "We have consistently stated that Europe needs talent. Researchers are the driving force behind our progress in science and innovation," she stated. To enhance Europe’s attractiveness, the Commission is focused on improving career opportunities and working conditions for scientists.

Under Zaharieva’s leadership, the European Commission has also launched the Marie Skłodowska-Curie “Choose Europe” pilot program. This initiative provides long-term career grants to early-stage researchers who opt to work in European universities and research institutions, reinforcing Europe’s competitive edge in global research.

Her office highlighted that EU policymakers, universities, and private companies are calling for swift action to leverage recent geopolitical shifts. "These developments present significant opportunities for Europe, and we are actively working on scaling up our initiatives," they stated.

Furthermore, the EURAXES portal, which facilitates researcher mobility, now offers over 8,000 positions, including 5,000 doctoral defences across multiple disciplines. These efforts are part of the EU’s ongoing push to position itself as a premier destination for global scientific talent.

European Commissioner for Start-ups, Research, and Innovation Ekaterina Zaharieva has urged the European Research Council (ERC) to boost funding for elite scientists relocating from the United States. The proposed increase would double the grant from €1 million to €2 million per researcher for 2...

Bulgaria Sees Record Surge in Foreign Labor to Meet Workforce DemandsBulgaria has welcomed over 108,000 foreign workers ...
25/03/2025

Bulgaria Sees Record Surge in Foreign Labor to Meet Workforce Demands

Bulgaria has welcomed over 108,000 foreign workers from 65 countries in the past six years, with a significant increase in labour imports from non-EU nations. However, despite this influx, Bulgarian companies continue to face workforce shortages. As of March 10, 2024, a total of 4,202 third-country nationals were registered for seasonal employment, accounting for more than 40% of the anticipated seasonal workforce for the year. These statistics were revealed by Social Minister Borislav Gutsanov in response to a parliamentary inquiry from MP Denitsa Sacheva (GERB).

The number of foreign workers in Bulgaria has consistently grown, with 34,720 employed in 2024 alone through various permit and registration programs. Of these, 13,131 workers secured a single residence and work permit, granting them a three-year stay with full labour market access. Seasonal employment remains a popular option, attracting 10,403 workers for short-term jobs lasting up to 90 days.

Uzbekistan leads as the largest source of foreign labour in Bulgaria, with 10,514 workers arriving between 2019 and 2024, primarily employed in seasonal work, construction, and the processing industry. Close behind are 10,441 workers from Turkey, who fill roles as engineers, technicians, and seasonal workers in construction. Other major labour sources include 7,138 workers from Kyrgyzstan, 4,522 from Nepal, and 3,155 from India, contributing to sectors such as agriculture, tourism, IT, and transport.

The steady rise in foreign labour since 2019 highlights Bulgaria’s increasing reliance on migrant workers. From 14,859 foreign employees in 2019, the numbers surged to 34,720 in 2024. The COVID-19 pandemic briefly disrupted this growth, with the number of foreign workers dropping to 8,284 in 2020. However, recovery was swift, with figures rebounding to 15,072 in 2022 and 24,945 in 2023.

Minister Gutsanov addressed concerns about bureaucratic hurdles in processing foreign worker applications, noting that while there are no major delays, challenges remain. Despite the launch of an electronic application system, many employers still submit paperwork manually, with only 251 applications processed digitally so far. Common issues include errors in employment contracts, employer tax debts delaying approvals, and unreadable documents such as passports and contracts. Additionally, a surge of bulk applications in February created further backlogs, highlighting the need for improved efficiency.

To address these bottlenecks, Minister Gutsanov emphasised the importance of better coordination between relevant agencies to streamline the approval process. Despite these challenges, the increasing presence of non-EU workers underscores their critical role in filling labour shortages across various Bulgarian industries.

Bulgaria has welcomed over 108,000 foreign workers from 65 countries in the past six years, with a significant increase in labour imports from non-EU nations. However, despite this influx, Bulgarian companies continue to face workforce shortages. As of March 10, 2024, a total of 4,202 third-country....

Vegetables and Bread Drive Rising Food Prices in BulgariaFood prices in Bulgaria have become a central topic in both pub...
25/03/2025

Vegetables and Bread Drive Rising Food Prices in Bulgaria

Food prices in Bulgaria have become a central topic in both public and political debates, particularly following the removal of preferential VAT rates and the country’s efforts to meet inflation requirements for euro adoption. In response to escalating costs, some retail chains have faced consumer boycotts, while proposals to impose price controls have resurfaced. This report examines long-term food price trends in comparison with household income growth, as outlined by the Institute for Market Economics.

As of January 2025, the overall consumer price index has risen by 42% over the past decade, but food prices have surged nearly twice as much—by 79%. Among food products, vegetables and bread have seen the most dramatic increases, soaring by 98% and 94%, respectively. Meanwhile, fruit and fish have recorded lower price hikes of 48% and 42%. The sharpest increases have occurred in recent years, driven by higher costs for raw materials, energy, and labour.

Between 2021 and January 2025, food prices climbed by 50%, with vegetable prices jumping by 56%. Oils and fats recorded a more modest increase of 22% during this period, although they experienced a major price spike in 2022. Bread prices have been particularly volatile, initially stabilised by VAT discounts and trade surcharge limits following a sharp 100% increase in mid-2022. However, when preferential tax rates ended in 2024, bread prices surged again, rising by more than 30% in just one month between December 2024 and January 2025.

A closer analysis reveals that bread is now at its highest price in nearly a decade, with its price index reaching 223 compared to 2015. Similar trends have been observed for butter, fresh vegetables (excluding potatoes), and potatoes. Conversely, baby food has remained relatively affordable, with a price index of 136, alongside lower increases in the cost of fish and dried fruits.

Despite these rising costs, household income and wages have outpaced food price inflation. Between 2015 and 2023, the average household income per person grew by 119%, with projections for 2024 suggesting an increase of up to 135%. Wages have followed a similar upward trajectory, meaning that even for bread—the product with the steepest price increase—income growth has more than compensated for inflation. While food prices have undeniably risen, purchasing power has not been significantly diminished overall.

However, systemic pricing issues persist in certain categories, particularly dairy products and fats. Political discussions about introducing "surcharge ceilings" to curb food price hikes continue, but such measures have seen limited success in practice. Many view these proposals as political gestures rather than viable long-term solutions, as they often fail to address the underlying economic factors driving inflation.

Food prices in Bulgaria have become a central topic in both public and political debates, particularly following the removal of preferential VAT rates and the country’s efforts to meet inflation requirements for euro adoption. In response to escalating costs, some retail chains have faced consumer...

From Plastic to Paper: Bulgaria’s Shift Toward a Greener FutureBulgarians are gradually adopting more eco-friendly habit...
25/03/2025

From Plastic to Paper: Bulgaria’s Shift Toward a Greener Future

Bulgarians are gradually adopting more eco-friendly habits, often without consciously realising it. The widespread use of cloth bags at stores has become a common sight, largely driven by the rising cost of plastic bags and the inconvenience of storing them at home. Similarly, disposable plastic coffee cups have been replaced by cardboard alternatives, while wooden stirrers and paper straws are now standard. Some individuals go even further, opting for reusable bamboo or glass straws as part of their commitment to sustainability.

In larger cities, waste separation has become more common, with many households designating separate bins for general waste, paper, and plastic. Urban areas equipped with specialised recycling containers have made the practice more accessible, and a growing number of eco-conscious residents have taken it a step further by composting organic waste. Meanwhile, parents are increasingly choosing wooden toys for their children, and more people—especially fathers—are replacing cars with bicycles. For Generation Z, environmental protection is a priority, with many eager to contribute to a cleaner, greener future.

Despite these shifts, many everyday behaviours are still shaped more by habit than environmental concern. Shoppers frequently reach for plastic bags when buying fruit, often paying the small extra fee without hesitation. Grocery stores also automatically charge for disposable plastic containers, particularly for items like olives or salads, leaving customers with little choice. While some consumers would prefer to bring their own containers, Bulgarian hygiene laws prohibit this practice due to food safety regulations. As a result, many stores avoid allowing personal containers out of fear of potential fines.

A European directive introduced in 2023 requires stores and takeaway establishments to charge for plastic containers, aiming to curb plastic waste and promote sustainability. However, the lack of viable alternatives has frustrated many consumers who feel they are being forced to pay without other options. The cost of single-use plastics continues to rise, with food boxes now carrying a minimum charge of 30 stotinki and drink cups at 15 stotinki. These prices are set to increase gradually each year until 2027, a measure designed to discourage plastic consumption. Still, without a definitive plan for an outright ban, plastic products will remain available while supplies last.

Fast-food chains have responded to these regulations in varying ways, with some adding minimal charges for single-use packaging while others impose higher fees. For example, customers purchasing meals from fast-food restaurants may see additional packaging costs of 30 or 35 stotinki per order. A glance at online retailers selling disposable packaging reveals a noticeable markup—bulk purchases remain significantly cheaper at wholesale prices, but stores pass the added costs on to consumers.

Ultimately, Bulgaria’s transition to a more sustainable lifestyle is progressing, albeit with some resistance. While new regulations and rising costs are pushing people toward greener choices, the shift remains a balancing act between convenience, cost, and environmental awareness.

Bulgarians are gradually adopting more eco-friendly habits, often without consciously realising it. The widespread use of cloth bags at stores has become a common sight, largely driven by the rising cost of plastic bags and the inconvenience of storing them at home. Similarly, disposable plastic cof...

Food Vouchers in Bulgaria Lose 45% of Value in Five Years, No Adjustment ApprovedOver the past five years, food vouchers...
25/03/2025

Food Vouchers in Bulgaria Lose 45% of Value in Five Years, No Adjustment Approved

Over the past five years, food vouchers in Bulgaria have lost nearly 45% of their purchasing power due to food price inflation, according to an analysis by the Association of Food Voucher Operators. The association warns that without an urgent adjustment, vouchers will continue to lose effectiveness and proposes increasing the tax-free monthly amount from 200 BGN to 300 BGN (100 to 200 euros).

Eurostat data reveals that, when factoring in average food inflation, the real value of food vouchers has dropped by 53% over five years and by 38% over three years. Without accounting for additional inflation in early 2025, 200 BGN today is equivalent to just 131 BGN compared to 2019 and 146 BGN compared to 2022. To maintain the same purchasing power as in 2022, the voucher amount would need to rise to at least 275 BGN in 2025.

Despite growing concerns, the National Assembly voted to keep the maximum tax-free voucher amount at 200 BGN, maintaining the total annual quota at 1.6 billion BGN under the Corporate Income Tax Act. Employers have the discretion to provide vouchers and set their value, with the industry average ranging between 150-160 BGN. Currently, over 800,000 employees rely on these vouchers.

Food prices in Bulgaria have surged, further diminishing the effectiveness of vouchers. Data from the European Classification of Individual Consumption shows that over the past few years, bread prices have risen by 18.9%, dairy and eggs by 41.7%, meat by 41.1%, and vegetables by 43.5%. Since early 2025, additional increases have pushed bread prices up by another 20%, cucumbers by 13.7%, and cooking oil by 5.4%.

A survey from the Edenred Food Barometer 2024, conducted among 6,800 employees, found that two-thirds of employees use their vouchers entirely by the end of each month. If the amount were increased, 93% said they would purchase more food for home consumption, 85% believed it would improve the quality of their meals, and 54% stated it would allow them to afford lunch at work without financial strain.

Concerns over rising food costs persist, with 72% of respondents expecting further price hikes. Eating out is the first expense they would cut, while over half of households report that food accounts for more than a third of their monthly budget—an expense they cannot afford to reduce.

The association also argues that increasing the voucher amount would have positive fiscal effects by boosting VAT revenue through higher domestic food consumption. Since vouchers can only be used within Bulgaria, they directly support local businesses. However, with the maximum amount unchanged, employees will continue to struggle with reduced purchasing power and increasing financial strain on essential food purchases.

Over the past five years, food vouchers in Bulgaria have lost nearly 45% of their purchasing power due to food price inflation, according to an analysis by the Association of Food Voucher Operators. The association warns that without an urgent adjustment, vouchers will continue to lose effectiveness...

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