The MPs approved, at first reading, the update of the state budget. As of 1 July a differentiated VAT rate is being put in place – for bread VAT will be zero, for natural gas supplies – 9% instead of the current 20%. VAT on wine and beer served at bars and restaurants will be 20%, up from 9%, a reduction that was introduced during the pandemic. Pensions are to go up as well.
The budget is calculated at an economic growth of 2.9% and an annual inflation rate of 11.9%, even though, according to the National Statistical Institute, annual inflation now stands at over 15%.
The most heated debates in plenary were over the increase in the debt limit to EUR 5.1 billion. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Assen Vassilev gave as the reason for this the need to revolve old government debts.
The Bulgarian National Bank (BNB) has revised upwards its expectations for Bulgarian economic growth in 2025 but lowered its GDP growth forecast for 2026, it transpired from the Bank's regular quarterly Macroeconomic Forecast. In its March..
Bulgaria’s debt for 2024 amounts to BGN 48.846 billion (EUR 24 billion), or 24.1% of the country’s GDP, preliminary data from the National Statistical Institute (NSI) show. In 2023, the country's debt was BGN 42.383 billion (EUR 20.8 billion), or..
A working individual living in a one-person household needs a net monthly income of 1,521 BNG (EUR 747) to cover basic needs. A three-member household needs 2,738 BGN (EUR 1,344). The income needed to cover minimum living costs increases by..
The Bulgarian National Bank (BNB) has revised upwards its expectations for Bulgarian economic growth in 2025 but lowered its GDP growth forecast for..
sunshine, cloud, rain and thunder
Partly cloudy, chance of rain
Overcast, rain