The center - Ruse Chamber of Commerce and Industry https://rcci.bg/en Established 1890 Tue, 17 Mar 2026 11:04:34 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://rcci.bg/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/cropped-Site-Icon-New-32x32.png The center - Ruse Chamber of Commerce and Industry https://rcci.bg/en 32 32 The future of Ruse in the new regional map: A model of new zoning with a strong Danube zone  https://rcci.bg/en/%d0%b1%d1%8a%d0%b4%d0%b5%d1%89%d0%b5%d1%82%d0%be-%d0%bd%d0%b0-%d1%80%d1%83%d1%81%d0%b5-%d0%b2-%d0%bd%d0%be%d0%b2%d0%b0%d1%82%d0%b0-%d1%80%d0%b5%d0%b3%d0%b8%d0%be%d0%bd%d0%b0%d0%bb%d0%bd%d0%b0-%d0%ba/ https://rcci.bg/en/%d0%b1%d1%8a%d0%b4%d0%b5%d1%89%d0%b5%d1%82%d0%be-%d0%bd%d0%b0-%d1%80%d1%83%d1%81%d0%b5-%d0%b2-%d0%bd%d0%be%d0%b2%d0%b0%d1%82%d0%b0-%d1%80%d0%b5%d0%b3%d0%b8%d0%be%d0%bd%d0%b0%d0%bb%d0%bd%d0%b0-%d0%ba/#respond Mon, 16 Mar 2026 12:44:40 +0000 https://rcci.bg/?p=20035 In the context of the Updated National Concept for Regional and Spatial Development until 2040 presented by the Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works (MRDPW), the Ruse Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) reinforces its position in support of the strategic restructuring of the NUTS 2 level regions.

The main goal of the concept is to reduce the deepening territorial imbalances and create conditions for economic growth in all parts of the country. After a detailed discussion of several alternatives for new zoning, the following was chosen: Option 1 – a decision that RTIK actively supported as the most successful and promising for the future of the Danube region and the national economy.

Why is Option 1 the best choice?

Our support for this option is based on five strategic pillars that ensure sustainability and effectiveness:

  • Economic and social logic: This model takes into account real economic profiles, infrastructure and natural resources. This allows for targeted investments – from sustainable agriculture in the North to industrial projects in the South and blue economy in the East.
  • Demographic sustainability: Option 1 meets the strict EU criteria (Regulation No. 1059/2003). NSI forecasts indicate that with this distribution, the regions will maintain a population above the critical threshold of 800,000 people even after 2090.
  • Improved connectivity: The new zoning places emphasis on the TEN-T transport corridors. For Ruse, as a key transport hub on the Danube, this means better connections with neighboring countries and accelerated development of the Danube area.
  • International cooperation: The separation of the Northern and Eastern regions facilitates our integration into cross-border initiatives such as the Danube Strategy and the Black Sea Synergy.
  • Effective resource management: The consolidation will lead to a reduction in the administrative burden and better coordination of financial flows from European funds.

A look to the future

While the other options considered (Option 2 and Option 3) carried risks of maintaining the status quo or inefficient allocation of resources, Option 1 offers real modernization.

RTIK believes that by adopting this model, also enshrined in the MRDPW concept until 2040, Bulgaria is taking a decisive step towards overcoming the differences between the regions. We remain committed to working to transform Ruse and the Northern region into an engine of economic prosperity.

For additional information, read the full publication of the MRDPW here:

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The Eurozone and the released liquidity to support economic growth https://rcci.bg/en/%d0%b5%d0%b2%d1%80%d0%be%d0%b7%d0%be%d0%bd%d0%b0%d1%82%d0%b0-%d0%b8-%d0%be%d1%81%d0%b2%d0%be%d0%b1%d0%be%d0%b4%d0%b5%d0%bd%d0%b8%d1%8f%d1%82-%d0%bb%d0%b8%d0%ba%d0%b2%d0%b8%d0%b4%d0%b5%d0%bd-%d1%80/ https://rcci.bg/en/%d0%b5%d0%b2%d1%80%d0%be%d0%b7%d0%be%d0%bd%d0%b0%d1%82%d0%b0-%d0%b8-%d0%be%d1%81%d0%b2%d0%be%d0%b1%d0%be%d0%b4%d0%b5%d0%bd%d0%b8%d1%8f%d1%82-%d0%bb%d0%b8%d0%ba%d0%b2%d0%b8%d0%b4%d0%b5%d0%bd-%d1%80/#respond Mon, 02 Mar 2026 14:16:17 +0000 https://rcci.bg/?p=19965 A month after the final introduction of the euro, attention is no longer focused on the technical transition, but on the economic effects that are beginning to manifest themselves in depth. After the banking system and business have successfully passed the first stage of adaptation, the structural benefits for the liquidity, investments and competitiveness of the Bulgarian economy are coming to the fore.

Visible benefits: No fees and no currency risk

The initial positives of joining the Eurozone are entirely practical and financial in nature. They act as a „lubricant“ for the economy, removing unnecessary friction from day one:

  • Savings from currency conversion: Bulgarian companies (especially importers and exporters) and citizens no longer lose from banks' "buy/sell" exchange rate differences in transactions to and from Europe. This keeps hundreds of millions of euros annually in the domestic economy.
  • Boost for tourism: Eliminating the need for currency exchange makes our country more accessible and attractive to European tourists, eliminating the risk of poor exchange rates and facilitating the business of hoteliers and restaurateurs.
  • Increased credit rating: Eliminating currency risk automatically raises the country's rating. This means more profitable financing for the country on international markets and indirectly better conditions for business.
  • Price transparency: Consumers can now directly compare prices in our country with those in other European countries, which creates natural pressure on retailers against unjustified markups.

New liquidity resource for the banking sector: 7.5 billion comes to light

The real financial driver of our integration, however, lies in a more technical but fundamental change – the drastic reduction in banks' minimum reserve requirements (MRR).

Until our entry into the Eurozone, the Bulgarian National Bank (BNB) maintained some of the highest MRO levels in Europe – 12% to the deposit base, as a strict anti-inflationary measure in a currency board arrangement. With accession to the European Central Bank (ECB), this requirement falls to the standard for the Union 1%.

For a banking system with a huge deposit base like ours, this difference of 11 percentage points means "unlocking" financial resources from about 7.5 billion euros, which until now were blocked in the vaults of our central bank.

What does this liquidity mean for the real economy?

The release of these funds acts as a powerful financial injection without the state taking on new external debt. This is felt in several ways:

  • More accessible lending: Banks now have a huge free resource that they need to put to work. Increased competition for its placement has traditionally kept loan interest rates lower and encouraged more flexible terms for businesses and households.
  • Eliminating the "hidden tax" on banks: Previously, the funds blocked were not profitable, which acted as a burden on banks. They often compensated for this loss by charging higher fees to customers. Eliminating this cost makes the banking sector more efficient and reduces the pressure on consumers.
  • Investment incentive: Directing this massive capital to the real economy – for new factories, innovations, and infrastructure – is a direct prerequisite for tangible growth in Gross Domestic Product.

The balance and risks

The only serious risk to this optimistic scenario is the potential inflationary pressure. If the freed billions are poured too sharply into the economy in the form of mass consumer loans alone, this could lead to the market overheating and rising prices.

Analysts expect, however, that financial institutions in our country will take a conservative approach. Some of this money will likely be invested in government securities or other low-risk assets, which will cushion the inflationary blow while ensuring stability.

Adopting the euro is not a magic wand for instant wealth. However, by removing financial barriers and infusing fresh capital through reduced bank reserves, the new currency gives the Bulgarian economy a historic chance for accelerated and competitive growth within the European family.

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The stress test of the transition: What were the real challenges in the first month with the new currency? https://rcci.bg/en/%d1%81%d1%82%d1%80%d0%b5%d1%81-%d1%82%d0%b5%d1%81%d1%82%d1%8a%d1%82-%d0%bd%d0%b0-%d0%bf%d1%80%d0%b5%d1%85%d0%be%d0%b4%d0%b0-%d0%ba%d0%b0%d0%ba%d0%b2%d0%b8-%d0%b1%d1%8f%d1%85%d0%b0-%d1%80%d0%b5%d0%b0/ https://rcci.bg/en/%d1%81%d1%82%d1%80%d0%b5%d1%81-%d1%82%d0%b5%d1%81%d1%82%d1%8a%d1%82-%d0%bd%d0%b0-%d0%bf%d1%80%d0%b5%d1%85%d0%be%d0%b4%d0%b0-%d0%ba%d0%b0%d0%ba%d0%b2%d0%b8-%d0%b1%d1%8f%d1%85%d0%b0-%d1%80%d0%b5%d0%b0/#respond Mon, 23 Feb 2026 10:32:07 +0000 https://rcci.bg/?p=19909 The adoption of the euro as the sole legal tender as of February 1, 2026 marks the end of the dynamic one-month period of dual circulation. Although institutions and the financial sector describe the process as smooth and successful, the historic change quite predictably brought its own specific logistical, administrative, and psychological challenges.

Here were the main difficulties on the road to the new currency that businesses and consumers in Bulgaria faced.

Business Challenges: Liquidity, Software, and Fines

For traders and entrepreneurs, the first month of the year turned out to be a real stress test. The main stumbling blocks included:

  • The logistics of dual circulation: The greatest initial burden for retailers was the obligation to accept payments in levs while giving change primarily in euros. This created serious liquidity challenges and led to temporary local shortages of small euro banknotes (10 and 20 euros) and coins, especially in smaller retail outlets.
  • Strict control and administrative sanctions: Increased inspections by the National Revenue Agency and the Consumer Protection Commission (CPC) for unjustified price rounding and failure to comply with dual price display rules caused additional tension. By the end of January alone, sanctions totaling nearly 400,000 euros had been imposed for identified violations.
  • Accounting and IT adaptation: Companies had to urgently reconfigure their ERP systems, cash registers and accounting software. The submission of tax declarations for periods ending after January 1, 2026 now requires reporting entirely in euros, necessitating intensive training for financial departments.
  • Re-registration of the authorized capital: All companies have until December 31, 2026 to update their articles of association and convert their share capital from levs into euros in the Commercial Register. Although no state fees are due for this process, it requires administrative time, and failure to comply carries the risk of fines and the blocking of future corporate changes.

Difficulties for citizens: Queues, counterfeits and "hidden" inflation

For the average consumer, parting with the lev did not pass without disruption.

  • Queues for cash exchange: By the end of January, around 25% of lev banknotes and coins were still in circulation. Since stores no longer accept them as of February 1, citizens had to exchange them physically at banks or at Bulgarian Posts. This led to queues and inconvenience at service counters, especially given the limits – post offices do not exchange more than 10,000 BGN per person per day, while amounts exceeding 30,000 BGN at banks require prior notice of three to five days.
  • Psychological barrier and "hidden" inflation: Despite the fixed exchange rate of 1 EUR = 1.95583 BGN, many consumers are having difficulty quickly navigating the new nominal price levels. Fears of speculative price hikes led to a peak in consumer complaints in the first weeks of the year.
  • Risk of fraud and counterfeit money: The appearance of the unknown physical currency in wallets has led to an increase in attempts to smuggle counterfeit euro banknotes. As early as January, the Ministry of Interior opened dozens of pre-trial proceedings in such cases.
  • Information confusion among vulnerable groups: Elderly citizens and residents of more remote areas faced the greatest difficulties in understanding the deadlines. A significant number of people mistakenly believed that the period during which they could pay in levs in stores would last six months rather than just one.

Light at the end of the tunnel

Despite initial setbacks, data from mid-February show a clear trend towards easing. Tensions are visibly easing, complaints are falling significantly, and the foreign trade sector is already feeling the real benefits of the elimination of currency risk and bank conversion fees. The transition is nearing its end, and the economy is starting to operate under the new European rules.

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EU and India finalize trade agreement: what it means for Bulgarian business and enterprises in the Ruse region https://rcci.bg/en/eu-and-india-finalize-trade-agreement/ https://rcci.bg/en/eu-and-india-finalize-trade-agreement/#respond Wed, 28 Jan 2026 04:10:57 +0000 https://rcci.bg/?p=19781 On 27 January 2026, the European Union and India announced the conclusion of negotiations on a comprehensive free trade agreement, which is expected to reduce tariff and non-tariff barriers between two markets with a combined population of nearly 2 billion consumers. The focus is on easier market access, predictability for companies and accelerating bilateral trade and investment.

What has been agreed at this stage?

According to information from the European Commission and the official pages on EU-India trade relations, the agreement includes:

  • Elimination or reduction of duties on over 96% of EU exports to India (by value), with anticipation EU exports to India to double by 2032.
  • Expected savings of around 4 billion euros per year from customs duties for European companies.
  • A broader framework for cooperation, including under the EU-India Strategic Partnership, with a focus on sustainability, technology and innovation.

It is important to note that after the announcement of the conclusion of negotiations, there is usually legal-linguistic revision and approval/ratification procedures under EU and Indian rules before the agreement enters into force.

Benefits and opportunities for businesses in Bulgaria

1) More competitive exports to a fast-growing market

India is a market with scale and strong consumer and industrial dynamics. Reduced tariffs and clearer rules could create the conditions for:

  • better price competitiveness of Bulgarian and European products;
  • more predictable costs upon entry and expansion of sales;
  • easier planning of deliveries and distribution to South Asia.

2) Sectors with potential for companies from Ruse and the region

In practice, the most tangible effect for local businesses usually comes in industries where customs duties and regulatory requirements are a significant component of the final price and delivery time. For businesses in the Ruse region and the wider Bulgarian economy, this is particularly relevant for:

  • Mechanical engineering and industrial equipment (machinery, components, subcontracting), where the EU explicitly emphasizes the elimination/reduction of customs duties for a wide group of goods.
  • Electronics, electrical engineering and industrial solutions, including integration into European and Indian supply chains.
  • Chemicals, pharma and medical devices, which are among the goods cited in international summaries as benefiting from tariff reductions.
  • Value-added foods and beverages, where relief is expected for certain product groups (as the framework and exceptions are important for the specific product category).

3) Strategic effect: diversification of markets and risks

Many companies are looking for diversification beyond traditional markets. International analyses also place the agreement in the context of broader changes in global trade and industrial policies. For Bulgarian SMEs, this could mean new growth channels, but also higher requirements for compliance, quality and sustainability.

What should companies do now?

  1. Map the product portfolio: which products/services have potential for India and which fall into the groups with expected tariff relief.
  2. Check regulatory requirements (standards, labeling, certifications, registration regimes), because non-tariff barriers are often decisive.
  3. Assess the impact of sustainability and carbon policies: according to international sources, the CBAM mechanism remains in force, which is important for energy-intensive sectors and materials.
  4. Plan partnerships: local distributor, agent, industrial partner or participation in B2B formats, as an entrance to the market.

The Ruse Chamber of Commerce and Industry will continue to monitor official publications and clarifications on the agreement and will inform businesses about key parameters, deadlines and practical business guidelines.

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Milen Dobrev to Pro TV Romania: The price increase is a long-term trend that began in 2024, and is not directly related to the euro https://rcci.bg/en/%d0%bc%d0%b8%d0%bb%d0%b5%d0%bd-%d0%b4%d0%be%d0%b1%d1%80%d0%b5%d0%b2-%d0%bf%d1%80%d0%b5%d0%b4-pro-tv-romania-%d0%bf%d0%be%d0%ba%d0%b0%d1%87%d0%b2%d0%b0%d0%bd%d0%b5%d1%82%d0%be-%d0%bd%d0%b0-%d1%86/ https://rcci.bg/en/%d0%bc%d0%b8%d0%bb%d0%b5%d0%bd-%d0%b4%d0%be%d0%b1%d1%80%d0%b5%d0%b2-%d0%bf%d1%80%d0%b5%d0%b4-pro-tv-romania-%d0%bf%d0%be%d0%ba%d0%b0%d1%87%d0%b2%d0%b0%d0%bd%d0%b5%d1%82%d0%be-%d0%bd%d0%b0-%d1%86/#respond Wed, 14 Jan 2026 14:52:32 +0000 https://rcci.bg/?p=19653 Following the introduction of the euro as the official currency in Bulgaria on January 1, 2026, the topic of the effects on the economy and the daily lives of citizens and businesses continues to be the focus of regional media. The Romanian national television channel Pro TV Romania is yet another media outlet to publish an extensive article examining the reactions in Bulgaria – from concerns about rising prices to the new investment attitudes of a part of the population.

In a television interview, the executive director of the Ruse Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mr. Milen Dobrev, emphasizes that the observed price increase is a trend that began in 2024 and should not be seen as a direct result of the adoption of the euro. According to him, it is rather a matter of multiple economic factors, including rising costs for energy, transport and resources, as well as an increase in the minimum wage (over the last 10 years the increase is almost 4 times), which are reflected in the final prices of goods and services. We should not forget the increase in VAT to 20% in a number of areas that were previously subject to preferential tax (medicines, food, bread and bakery products - previously it was 0%, books and printed publications, baby food and cosmetics, tourist services, restaurant and catering services), the increase in the social security burden, as well as the many newly introduced administrative regulations, requirements and procedures that gradually burden the cost of a number of businesses (which accumulates on the final price of products and services).

The Pro TV Romania material describes a wide range of reactions among the public. It is mentioned that some citizens and entrepreneurs express some concerns about the initial price fluctuations, especially in the first days after the transition to the single currency, as well as about the adaptation to the dual pricing of products. Some Bulgarians are looking for traditional „havens“ for their savings, such as investments in gold or real estate, in an attempt to protect their purchasing power during a period of transition. Our Romanian neighbors do not fail to jokingly mention some extreme opinions, such as that the „Bulgarian euro“ will not be valid in the rest of Europe, or that a folded 50 euro banknote in front of a mirror shows the image of Satan.

Despite the ongoing debates in society, the economic outlook of Mr. Dobrev and the business community remains focused on long-term stability. The adoption of the euro is seen as a natural continuation of the current monetary policy (currency board), which will strengthen predictability for investors and facilitate trade with EU partners.

The Romanian media concludes the report with the reminder that Bulgaria managed to overtake Romania in this particular area, as the Romanian government does not have a clear plan for introducing the single European currency, making it one of the six countries in the EU that have not yet done so.

The Pro TV Romania article is available at the following address (in Romanian).

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Obligations for commercial companies in the official currency conversion of capital after the introduction of the euro https://rcci.bg/en/%d0%b7%d0%b0%d0%b4%d1%8a%d0%bb%d0%b6%d0%b5%d0%bd%d0%b8%d1%8f-%d0%b7%d0%b0-%d1%82%d1%8a%d1%80%d0%b3%d0%be%d0%b2%d1%81%d0%ba%d0%b8%d1%82%d0%b5-%d0%b4%d1%80%d1%83%d0%b6%d0%b5%d1%81%d1%82%d0%b2%d0%b0/ https://rcci.bg/en/%d0%b7%d0%b0%d0%b4%d1%8a%d0%bb%d0%b6%d0%b5%d0%bd%d0%b8%d1%8f-%d0%b7%d0%b0-%d1%82%d1%8a%d1%80%d0%b3%d0%be%d0%b2%d1%81%d0%ba%d0%b8%d1%82%d0%b5-%d0%b4%d1%80%d1%83%d0%b6%d0%b5%d1%81%d1%82%d0%b2%d0%b0/#respond Wed, 14 Jan 2026 09:33:23 +0000 https://rcci.bg/?p=19646 In connection with the introduction of the euro as official currency in the Republic of Bulgaria from January 1, 2026., specific legal and administrative obligations arise for commercial companies related to the official automatic currency conversion of capital and the updating of corporate documents in accordance with the new currency.

Automatic currency conversion

From the beginning of 2026. Registry Agency The automatic conversion of the capital of commercial companies from levs to euros at the fixed exchange rate has officially begun 1 EUR = 1.95583 BGN.. This is done without an application from the companies and without payment of a state fee. The process is expected to be completed within the next month due to the large number of registered companies.

Official currency conversion does not change the rights of partners or shareholders and does not affect their participation in the capital - the proportions remain unchanged. However, in some cases, due to automatic rounding or technical calculations during currency conversion a discrepancy may arise between the subscribed capital and the shares/stocks, which should be assessed by the company in order to protect the interests of partners and shareholders.

Updating corporate documents

Despite the official currency conversion, companies are required to bring their corporate documents into line with the new values of the capital expressed in euros. This includes updating the articles of association, statutes or articles of association to indicate the new amounts of capital and, where necessary, the shares or shares, taking into account the converted values.

The updated documents are submitted for publication in The Commercial Register simultaneously with the first subsequent application for entry, amendment or announcement (for example, when submitting the annual financial report). The deadline for their submission is until December 31, 2026.

Adjustments to LLCs to preserve the rights of partners

At limited liability companies, when automatic currency conversion leads to discrepancies between the new amount of capital and the partners' shares, the law allows for correction of the partnership agreement up to 5 % of the capital entered in the Commercial Register, in order to preserve the proportional participation of the partners.

This flexibility is intended to avoid legal or administrative difficulties due to rounding or other technical differences that arise during the automatic conversion from levs to euros.

Prhymer

If the capital of one Ltd. by the end of 2025 is 5,000 BGN., distributed in 5 shares of 1,000 BGN each, after the official automatic currency conversion it will be reflected in The Commercial Register as 2,556.46 euros (at the fixed rate) 1 EUR = 1.95583 BGN.). In this case each of the five shares of 1,000 leva would correspond to approximately 511.29 euros, so that the proportions between the partners remain the same after currency conversion.

Automatic rounding and allocation leads to small technical differences between the shares and the registered capital value. In this case, the company may use the legal option to amend the partnership agreement up to the permissible 5 % amount., to synchronize internal corporate documents with the actual values of the capital in the register.

Assistance from RTIK

The Ruse Chamber of Commerce and Industry provides support to its members and partners in the process of adaptation to the new requirements related to the introduction of the euro and the official currency conversion of capital.

The Chamber can provide assistance through referral to qualified legal consultants, to assist enterprises in preparing, updating and formatting corporate documents in accordance with current legislation and good business practices.

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Bulgarian enterprises maintain investment activity despite the shortage of personnel https://rcci.bg/en/%d0%b1%d1%8a%d0%bb%d0%b3%d0%b0%d1%80%d1%81%d0%ba%d0%b8%d1%82%d0%b5-%d0%bf%d1%80%d0%b5%d0%b4%d0%bf%d1%80%d0%b8%d1%8f%d1%82%d0%b8%d1%8f-%d0%b7%d0%b0%d0%bf%d0%b0%d0%b7%d0%b2%d0%b0%d1%82-%d0%b8%d0%bd/ https://rcci.bg/en/%d0%b1%d1%8a%d0%bb%d0%b3%d0%b0%d1%80%d1%81%d0%ba%d0%b8%d1%82%d0%b5-%d0%bf%d1%80%d0%b5%d0%b4%d0%bf%d1%80%d0%b8%d1%8f%d1%82%d0%b8%d1%8f-%d0%b7%d0%b0%d0%bf%d0%b0%d0%b7%d0%b2%d0%b0%d1%82-%d0%b8%d0%bd/#respond Wed, 07 Jan 2026 11:56:52 +0000 https://rcci.bg/?p=19606 Bulgarian businesses continue to invest and plan to expand their operations, although the shortage of qualified labor remains the main challenge to investments. This is shown by the results of EIB Investment Survey (EIBIS) 2025 – Bulgaria, published by the European Investment Bank.

EIB Investment Survey is an annual survey by the European Investment Bank, covering around 13,000 businesses from all EU Member States. The National Profile for Bulgaria in the 2025 edition is based on a representative sample of 486 Bulgarian companies from different economic sectors.

The report presents data on the investment activity of enterprises, the main obstacles to investment, investment priorities and expectations for future development, outlining a combination of clearly expressed structural constraints and preserved investment activity.


Investments remain stable

According to the study 71% of Bulgarian companies invested in the last reported financial year, at 86% average for the European Union. Although this share remains below the EU average, the data show that a significant portion of enterprises in the country continue to make investments.

Investment expectations remain balanced, with the reported balance between companies planning an increase in investments and those expecting a decrease being +3%, a value close to the EU average.


The shortage of personnel - a leading constraint to investments

The shortage of labor and skills is indicated by over 86% from enterprises in Bulgaria as a major obstacle to their investment activity. This is the most frequently noted constraint in the survey and affects enterprises in all major sectors of the economy.


Investment priorities and planned capacity expansion

Despite the reported limitations, 40% of investing companies in Bulgaria plan to expand their production capacity in the next three years, at 26% EU average.

Along with expanding capacity, investments are aimed at:

  • replacement and modernization of existing equipment;
  • improving production processes;
  • implementation of new products and services.

Digitalization, sustainable investments and training

The study reports investments in digital technologies, including software, data and automation, as well as in training and upgrading of personnel qualifications. Some enterprises also direct funds to energy efficiency and other sustainable solutions, which are present among the investment directions reported in the study.


Access to finance

Enterprise assessments show that access to external financing remains relatively good, with some companies reporting an improvement compared to previous years. This creates the prerequisites for the realization of the planned investments.


Conclusion

The data from EIB Investment Survey 2025 – Bulgaria show that the shortage of personnel remains a key challenge facing Bulgarian business, but along with this, there are also clear positive trends – sustainable investments, focus on expansion and modernization, digitalization and a gradual transition to more sustainable development models.

These results confirm that with targeted policies in the areas of skills, education and innovation, the investment potential of the Bulgarian economy can be realized to a greater extent.

Source: EIB Investment Survey 2025 – Bulgaria, European Investment Bank.

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Bulgaria’s Euro Adoption: Milen Dobrev on Euronews Romania About the Impact on Business and Investments https://rcci.bg/en/bulgarias-euro-adoption/ https://rcci.bg/en/bulgarias-euro-adoption/#respond Mon, 05 Jan 2026 12:46:08 +0000 https://rcci.bg/?p=19562 At the end of 2025, a Euronews Romania team visited Ruse to monitor public attitudes and business expectations just before Bulgaria's accession to the eurozone. In the analytical material, the executive director of the Ruse Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI), Milen Dobrev, emphasized the key benefit for companies: higher predictability and security for investments, which may increase the interest of international investors in Bulgaria.

In parallel with the optimism of Bulgarian business, the report also presents assessments by Romanian economists, according to which the combination of eurozone membership and low taxes may increase competitive pressure on Romania and create an incentive for some Romanian companies to consider Bulgaria as an alternative location for business or investment.

1. Context: What the Business Says Through the Prism of The Interview

In the interview with Euronews Romania, Milen Dobrev points out that the adoption of the euro is perceived by businesses as guarantee of investment security and a better investment climate, with the expectation that this will support economic growth and accelerate the attraction of international partners.

On the Romanian side, the analysts in the material point out that the eurozone brings an additional layer of trust and predictability, and with competitive tax parameters, this could become a real advantage for Bulgaria in a regional plan.

2. Bulgaria in The Eurozone: Key Facts About the Transition

Bulgaria introduces the euro from January 1, 2026., with the official fixed rate being 1 EUR = 1.95583 BGN. The decision is part of the formal accession procedure, following an assessment of the fulfillment of the criteria and subsequent decisions by the European institutions.

The practical transition is organized to minimize operational risk for businesses and citizens:

  • Automatic currency conversion of bank account balances in euros at the fixed exchange rate.
  • Parallel circulation of lev and euro for a limited period (in the publicly announced parameters - for about a month), with the aim of smoothly withdrawing the lev from circulation.

3. What Are the Expected Business Benefits: Where Is the Effect Most Tangible?

3.1. Lower Currency Risk and Easier Pricing in The EU

For companies that work with partners in the eurozone, the costs and uncertainties associated with currency translation, currency margins and hedging are eliminated. This typically results in:

  • clearer pricing (offers, contracts, catalogs);
  • easier comparison of suppliers and conditions;
  • lower transaction costs for some operations.

3.2. Investment Signal and Potential for Better Financing

The euro is seen as an additional „signal of confidence“ to the institutional environment. External markets often react by changing the risk assessment. A telling example is that after the key decisions on the adoption of the euro, rating agencies reported an improvement in the outlook/rating of Bulgaria.

3.3. Stronger Integration with The Single Market

More broadly, eurozone membership is a tool for deeper integration into the EU financial architecture and easier participation in cross-border value chains, especially in industries with European supply networks and long-term framework contracts.

4. Concerns: Inflation, Rounding and Confidence

The materials on Bulgaria also highlight the concerns of a part of society related to possible short-term price pressure and the risk of unfair practices during the transition.

International experience (including from recent accession countries) typically shows that:

  • the effect of currency change on inflation is rather limited, but
  • Public perception of price increases may be stronger if there is a lack of sufficient transparency and control over labeling and pricing.

5. Bulgaria and Romania: Competitive Dynamics and Real Factors for Investment Decisions

The report emphasizes the thesis that Bulgaria could become more attractive to some Romanian businesses if structural advantages such as tax predictability are added to eurozone membership.

Regarding the tax environment:

  • In Bulgaria, the profit of companies is subject to 10% corporate tax (under the general regime).
  • In Romania, the standard corporate tax rate is 16% (under the general regime).

It is important, however, that investment decisions are rarely made based on just one criterion. For companies comparing Ruse and nearby Romanian industrial locations, key factors include: availability of personnel, quality of infrastructure, administrative efficiency, energy costs, access to markets and sub-suppliers.

Additional context is provided by the picture of economic convergence in the EU: according to Eurostat data Bulgaria remains at the lowest level in GDP per capita (in PPS) in the EU in 2024 – 66% below the EU average, which explains why the topic of income and standard of living is strongly present in the public debate.

6. Practical Checklist for Companies: How To Manage the Transition to The Euro

To limit operational risks and seize the moment for optimization, companies can plan a few quick steps:

  1. Contracts and offers
    • review of currency clauses, indexations, advances and penalties;
    • standardization of price lists in EUR for EU customers.
  2. Accounting and ERP/CRM
    • checking currency settings, rounding, VAT reports, integrations with banks;
    • test scenarios for invoicing and payments in EUR.
  3. Cash registers, POS and labeling
    • synchronization of cash systems and dual currency display software (if applicable);
    • internal rules for controlling pricing and communication with customers.
  4. Liquidity and banking operations
    • review of bank rates, credit line conditions and limits;
    • cash and deposit management during the parallel circulation period.
  5. Communication to customers and partners
    • a brief explanation of how the company is switching to EUR, how prices are formed and how payments are processed;
    • ready-made answers to frequently asked questions (prices, deadlines, documents).

Video from Euronews Romania

The video is an external source and embedded by Euronews Romania. All rights reserved by their respective owners. For the original publication and additional context, please use the platform/channel of Euronews Romania.

Conclusion: What Does the Topic Mean for The Ruse Region?

Milen Dobrev's interview and the comments in Euronews Romania show two perspectives on the same change: for Bulgarian business, the euro is opportunity for stronger trust and investment dynamics, and for neighboring economies – competitive factor, which requires adaptation.

RCCI will continue to inform businesses about the practical aspects of the transition and the opportunities that arise from Bulgaria's deeper integration into the European economic and financial environment.

Sources

  • Euronews Romania (transcription and quotes in a post by The Bridge of Friendship) (The Bridge of Friendship)
  • ECB and European institutions – decisions and parameters on the introduction of the euro in Bulgaria (fixed exchange rate and date) (European Central Bank)
  • Eurostat – GDP per capita (PPS), preliminary estimates for 2024 (European Commission)
  • Reuters – market reactions/rating signals around the accession (Reuters)
  • Ministry of Economy and Industry (BG) – corporate tax 10% (general regime) (Ministry of Economy)
  • PwC Tax Summaries – Romania, corporate tax 16% (general regime) (Tax Summaries)

Note: This publication was prepared with the assistance of generative artificial intelligence, which supported the structuring and formulation of the content. The final text reflects the author’s expert contribution, which ensures its accuracy and practical relevance.

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https://rcci.bg/en/bulgarias-euro-adoption/feed/ 0 The environment » Rousse Chamber of Commerce and Industry non-adult
The new Digital Club in Ruse has started its work https://rcci.bg/en/%d1%81%d1%82%d0%b0%d1%80%d1%82%d0%b8%d1%80%d0%b0-%d1%80%d0%b0%d0%b1%d0%be%d1%82%d0%b0%d1%82%d0%b0-%d0%bd%d0%b0-%d0%bd%d0%be%d0%b2%d0%b8%d1%8f-%d0%b4%d0%b8%d0%b3%d0%b8%d1%82%d0%b0%d0%bb%d0%b5%d0%bd/ https://rcci.bg/en/%d1%81%d1%82%d0%b0%d1%80%d1%82%d0%b8%d1%80%d0%b0-%d1%80%d0%b0%d0%b1%d0%be%d1%82%d0%b0%d1%82%d0%b0-%d0%bd%d0%b0-%d0%bd%d0%be%d0%b2%d0%b8%d1%8f-%d0%b4%d0%b8%d0%b3%d0%b8%d1%82%d0%b0%d0%bb%d0%b5%d0%bd/#respond Fri, 12 Dec 2025 06:57:03 +0000 https://rcci.bg/?p=19636 From December 15, 2025. Work officially begins in Ruse Digital Club – a new space for training, support and practical work with digital technologies, aimed at all citizens. The club was created under a project by The Ruse Chamber of Commerce and Industry with the financial support of European Union – NextGenerationEU, through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan.

The Digital Club is part of the national network of digital clubs, whose main goal is increasing digital skills and facilitating access to electronic services. The space is created as an open and accessible environment where citizens can obtain knowledge, practical guidance and support for working with digital tools and platforms.

The club is located at Ruse, Tsar Ferdinand Blvd. No. 3A, floor 2, room 1 and is open to visitors with working hours from 9:00 to 17:00, every weekday. The use of the club's services is completely free for all citizens, regardless of age, employment, or previous experience with digital technologies.

The main goal of the club is to assist citizens in navigating and using electronic administrative services, as well as to promote lifelong learning in the context of digital transformation. Within the framework of its activities, the club offers support and training in working with electronic information systems. Visitors to the club can receive assistance in working with key electronic platforms and services such as the e-gov.bg portal, the systems for electronic authentication, secure electronic delivery, as well as when using electronic banking. The Digital Club also provides information on opportunities for inclusion in training with vouchers, funded under national and European programs, aimed at increasing the digital and professional competencies of employed, unemployed and inactive individuals.

With the opening of Digital Club Ruse A sustainable foundation is being created for the development of digital skills in the region and for easier, faster and equal access for citizens to electronic services and training.

This publication has been produced with the financial support of the European Union – NextGenerationEU. The sole responsibility for the content of the document lies with the Ruse Chamber of Commerce and Industry and under no circumstances can it be assumed that this document reflects the official position of the European Union and the EFMP DG at the MLSP. This investment is entitled „Building a Digital Club in Ruse“ and number BG-RRP-1.024-0418-C01, with a total project budget of BGN 52,000.

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Ruse Chamber of Commerce and Industry opens a digital club in Ruse https://rcci.bg/en/%d1%80%d1%83%d1%81%d0%b5%d0%bd%d1%81%d0%ba%d0%b0-%d1%82%d1%8a%d1%80%d0%b3%d0%be%d0%b2%d1%81%d0%ba%d0%be-%d0%b8%d0%bd%d0%b4%d1%83%d1%81%d1%82%d1%80%d0%b8%d0%b0%d0%bb%d0%bd%d0%b0-%d0%ba%d0%b0%d0%bc-3/ https://rcci.bg/en/%d1%80%d1%83%d1%81%d0%b5%d0%bd%d1%81%d0%ba%d0%b0-%d1%82%d1%8a%d1%80%d0%b3%d0%be%d0%b2%d1%81%d0%ba%d0%be-%d0%b8%d0%bd%d0%b4%d1%83%d1%81%d1%82%d1%80%d0%b8%d0%b0%d0%bb%d0%bd%d0%b0-%d0%ba%d0%b0%d0%bc-3/#respond Tue, 25 Nov 2025 09:51:07 +0000 https://rcci.bg/?p=19030 The Ruse Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) is pleased to announce the launch of another initiative of the organization for the benefit of citizens: the construction of a new fully equipped digital club. In it, all residents of the city of Ruse, including vulnerable groups, students, unemployed, senior citizens, etc. will receive free and completely free access to computer equipment and digital resources for the purposes of increasing their digital literacy, acquiring qualifications and retraining.

The digital club will be located at Tsar Ferdinand Blvd. 3A, 2nd floor, easily accessible from different parts of the city, and will be with completely free access for all citizens. The club will operate every weekday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., to provide maximum opportunity for students, youth, adults, workers, the unemployed, and business representatives to benefit from the resources and training that the initiative offers.

The club is currently in the process of being equipped with modern equipment, training materials, and spaces for work, learning, and collaboration. As soon as it is fully completed and functional, RTIK will announce the official opening date.

What are digital clubs at the national level?

Digital clubs are a key element of a large-scale national policy aimed at increasing digital literacy, inclusion in modern technologies and preparing the population for the economy of the future. They are being built under the Recovery and Resilience Plan through the Ministry of Labor and Social Policy and represent a new type of public spaces in which citizens receive free access to modern equipment, specialized software and digital skills training.

The main goal of the network is to reduce disparities between regions, to give people of all age groups a chance to develop the necessary competencies for working in a digital environment and to facilitate the transition to new professions, electronic services and modern communication models. A total of 760 clubs are planned to be established nationwide, making the initiative the largest program in Bulgaria to date aimed at digital education for the general public.

This represents an important step forward for the region and further proof that RTIK continues to be among the leading organizations that create real conditions for the promotion and development of key and professional competencies that benefit both individuals and businesses. We are convinced that the digital club in Ruse will become a key center for learning, development and inspiration for thousands of citizens in the region.

Expect more information about the official opening soon!

This publication has been produced with the financial support of the European Union – NextGenerationEU. The sole responsibility for the content of the document lies with the Ruse Chamber of Commerce and Industry and under no circumstances can it be assumed that this document reflects the official position of the European Union and the EFMP DG at the MLSP. This investment is entitled „Building a Digital Club in Ruse“ and number BG-RRP-1.024-0418-C01, with a total project budget of BGN 52,000.

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