The Booklet has been compiled National Statistical ... · Bulgaria in figures – 2015 edition 3 Facts about Bulgaria а EU, NATO and WTO Membership а Strategic geographical location

When using data from the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s publication, the source of information must be cited

obligatory. The information provided in this brochure was correct at the time it went to press, June 2015.

The Booklet has been compiled by courtesy of:

National Statistical Institute and Bulgarian National Bank.

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1Bulgaria in figures – 2015 edition

Dear business partners,On the eve of the 120th anniversary of the establishment of the chambers of commerce and industry in Bulgaria, it is my pleasure on behalf of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry to present to your attention this year’s edition of “Bulgaria in figures”. This time we are presenting an extended version of the brochure in which we have included Bulgaria’s position in the most important international rankings.

The present sixth edition of the brochure contains information about the most important economic indicators of Bulgaria. As a member state of the European Union, Bulgaria is distinguished by its good macroeconomic stability, low public debt and low tax rates in the meantime. BCCI will support the Government’s efforts to reform key sectors, believing that this is the way to improve the business and investment environment and increase our country’s rating in international classifications.

The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry with its system of 28 regional chambers and 105 members - sectorial organizations is ready to assist all entrepreneurs seeking business opportunities in Bulgaria. More information about the services provided by BCCI is available in the end of the brochure or on our website.

Hoping that you will find the information helpful, I remain

Yours sincerely,

Tsvetan Simeonov BCCI President

2 Bulgaria in figures – 2015 edition

Vidin

Montana

VratsaPleven

Lovech

So aSo a (cap)

Gabrovo

Ruse Razgrad

Silistra

Dobrich

North-West region

South-West regionSouth Central region

North Central region North-East region

South-East region

VarnaTargovishte

Shumen

Burgas

Yambol

Sliven

Haskovo

Plovdiv

Smolyan

Pazardzhik

Blagoevgrad

Kyustendil

Pernik

Kardzhali

VelikoTarnovo

StaraZagora

General data

State government: Parliamentary Republic

Head of state: President

Head of government: Prime-Minister

Capital: Sofia

Administrative and territorial division: 28 districts and 265 municipalities

Area: 111 001.9 sq.km.

Population: 7 202 198 persons as of 31.12.2014

Official language: Bulgarian

Religion: Mostly Eastern Orthodox Christians

National currency: LEV (BGN - fixed to the Euro, 1 EUR = 1.95583 BGN, since 1997)

REPUBLIC OF BULGARIA


Facts about Bulgaria аEU, NATO and WTO Membership аStrategic geographical location and openness to foreign markets: crossroad between Europe, Asia and Africa аStability in financial environment: Bulgaria’s debt is the third lowest in the EU 28 (27.6% of GDP) as of 2014 аBusiness-friendly environment: Simple and low taxation аCompetitive operational costs and competitive labour level

Main macroeconomic indicators

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

GDP (mill. EUR) 36 764 40 102 40 926 41 047 42 010

GDP real growth rate (%) 0.4 1.8 0.6 0.9 1.7

Inflation (%) 2.4 4.2 3.0 0.9 -1.4

Government deficit (% of GDP)

-3.2 -2.0 -0.7 -0.9 -2.8

Exports (mill. EUR) 15 561 20 264 20 770 22 271 22 116

Imports (mill. EUR) 19 245 23 406 25 459 25 828 26 189

Employment rate (%) 59.7 58.4 58.8 59.5 61.0

Unemployment rate (%) 10.3 11.4 12.4 13.0 11.5

Source: Eurostat, Bulgarian National Bank, National Statistical Institute

Forecast

2015 2016 2017 2018

GDP (mill. EUR) 42 734 43 983 45 632 47 283

GDP (real growth rate %) 1.4 1.7 2.3 2.1

Exports (real growth rate %) 2.8 3.1 3.4 3.6

Imports (real growth rate %) 3.6 4 4.4 4.4

Average inflation rate (%) -0.6 1.8 1.9 2

Unemployment rate (%) 10.8 10.2 9.4 9

Source: Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Bulgaria


BULGARIA IN THE INTERNATIONAL RANKINGS

Bulgaria has competitive positions in the different international indices. According to the following rankings the country has the best performance in terms of low taxes, budget openness, gender equality, internet speed and peace.

Position of Bulgaria in international rankings

0 50 100 150 200 250

Total number of ranked countriesBulgaria's rank

Freedom of the press 2014

E–Government Development Index 2014

Corruption perceptions index 2014

Human Development Index 2014

World Competitiveness 2014

Country Attractiveness Index in the Venture Capital & Private Equity 2014

Index of Economic Freedom 2015

Global competitiveness index 2014-2015

Democracy Index 2013

International Property Index 2014

Prosperity Index 2014

Logistics performance Index 2014

Global Innovation Index 2014

Best Countries for Business 2014

Environmental performance index 2014

Economic Freedom of the World 2014

Index of Globalization 2014

Doing Business 2015

Global peace index 2014

EuroHealth Consumer Index 2013

Net index explorer December 2014

The Global Gender Gap Rankings 2014

Open budget index 2012

Tax Misery & Reform Index 2009

78

73

69

58

56

56

55

54

53

50

48

47

44

42

41

40

39

38

32

30

25

22

17

7

197

193

175

185

60

118

178

144

167

97

142

160

143

145

178

152

207

189

162

36

195

142

100

67

Source: Respective websites


Focus on taxationFlat-tax system is introduced in Bulgaria - a single 10% rate applied on personal income since and a 10% rate applied on corporate income. Value-added tax in Bulgaria is a 20%, with the exception of hotel services, where a reduced rate of 9% is applied.

In Bulgaria taxpayers are released from payment of corporate tax in regions with high unemployment rates. In 2014 more than 2/3 of municipalities 176 (of total 265 in Bulgaria) had 25% higher than the average rate of unemployment for the country and there is 0% corporate income tax.

Bulgaria is the second least tax burdened country in the EU as of 2012: The overall tax-to-GDP ratio in Bulgaria is 27.9% for 2012, compared to an EU average of 39.4%.

Top statutory income tax rates and standard VAT rates (2014), %

VAT (standard rates)Tax on corporate incomeTax on personal income

PortugalBelgium

FranceDenmark

SwedenSpain

ItalyFinland

NetherlandsGermany

AustriaGreeceCroatia

SloveniaMalta

LuxembourgUnited Kingdom

IrelandPoland

Slovak RepublicCyprus

HungaryCzech Republic

EstoniaLatvia

RomaniaLithuania

Bulgaria

53.7 21.034.056.5 23.031.5

50.3 20.038.055.6 25.024.556.6 25.022.0

52.0 21.030.047.9 22.031.4

51.5 24.024.552.0 21.025.0

47.5 19.030.250.0 20.025.0

46.0 23.026.047.2 25.020.0

50.0 22.017.035.0 18.035.0

43.6 15.029.245.0 20.021.0

48.0 23.012.532.0 23.019.0

25.0 20.022.035.0 19.012.5

16.0 27.020.622.0 21.019.021.0 20.021.024.0 21.015.0

16.0 24.016.015.0 21.015.0

10.0 20.010.0

Source: Eurostat


GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCTThe stable macroeconomic environment and improving terms of business have been the main factors that determined the dynamic development of Bulgarian economy in last years.

Since 2000 the country has experienced a fast economic growth. After a small contraction in 2009, the Bulgarian economy has started to recover. The economy has been growing steadily, with higher rates than the EU average. Economic growth is expected to pick up in 2015 about 1.4%.

Real GDP growth rate

-8-6-4-202468

BulgariaEuropean Union 28

20142013201220112010200920082007200620052004

% change compared tothe previous year

Source: Eurostat

Over the past five years the GDP per employed has grown. Factors of growth have been the decline in employment and the increase of Gross Value Added in the economy.

GDP per employed

9000

9500

10000

10500

11000

11500

12000

12500

2014*2013*2012*20112010

10 201

11 378

11 910 11 99712 233

current prices, EUR

*Preliminary data Source: National Statistical Institute, Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry


Gross Domestic Product and Gross Value Added by economic sectors and economic activity groupings at the current year prices

Million EUR

Economic sectors and economic activity groupings

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014*

Agriculture, forestry and fishing

1 620 1 899 1 916 1 932 1 903

Mining and quarrying; manufacturing; electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply; water supply; sewerage, waste management and remediation activities

6 613 8 301 8 507 8 184 8 508

Construction 2 209 2 177 2 090 1 690 1 736

Wholesale and retail trade; repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles; transportation and storage; accommodation and food service activities

6 566 6 949 7 125 7 561 7 699

Information and communication

1 763 1 885 1 815 1 989 2 014

Financial and insurance activities

2 603 2 957 2 739 2 541 2 791

Real estate activities 3 691 3 829 3 745 3 797 3 837

Professional, scientific and technical activities; administrative and support service activities

1 771 1 896 2 101 1 976 1 969

Public administration and defence; compulsory social security; education; human health and social work activities

4 036 4 193 4 316 4 752 4 754

Arts, entertainment and recreation, repair of household goods and other services

883 835 860 921 920

Total Economic 31 756 34 921 35 216 35 344 36 131

Adjustments (taxes less subsidies on products )

5 008 5 182 5 710 5 704 5 879

Gross Domestic Product 36 764 40 102 40 926 41 047 42 010

* Preliminary data Source: National Statistical Institute, Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry


The sectors that reported the largest contribution to GDP in 2014 (share of 45%) were Mining, quarrying and manufacturing and Wholesale and retail trade.

All activities in the services sector reported an increase. Information and communication and Professional and scientific activities posted the most significant growth in gross value added across services sub-sectors with an increase of 1.8% for each of the both activity groupings compared to 2013.

Structure of Gross Value Added by economic sectors and economic activity groupings in 2014

5.5%Professional, scienti�c and technical

activities; administrative and supportservice activities

10.6%Real estate activities

7.7%Financial and

insurance activities5.6%

Information andcommunication

5.3%Agriculture, forestry

and �shing13.2%

Public administration and defence;compulsory social security;

education; human health andsocial work activities

21.3%Wholesale and retail trade

2.5%Arts, entertainmentand recreation, repairof household goodsand other services

4.8%Construction

23.5%Mining, quarrying and manufacturing

Source: National Statistical Institute, Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry


EXPORTExports have made strong contribution to GDP. The exportation of goods has been the main driver of the economic growth in recent years.

Despite volatility in the world economic environment Bulgaria’s export of goods and services picked up significantly in last 5 years.

In 2014 Bulgarian exports grew by 42% in nominal terms compared to 2010.

Retaining their competitive positions, the Bulgarian exports have a potential to expand their market share throughout various regions (euro areas and other countries).

Exports (FOB) in 2014 amounted to EUR 22.1 billion. In 2014 compared to a year earlier the exportation of consumer goods increased with 10% and for investment goods the growth was 8%.

Exports by years

0

5000

10000

15000

20000

25000

20142013201220112010

15 561

20 264 20 77022 271 22 116

Мillion EUR

Source: Bulgarian National Bank


Exports by commodity groupsMillion EUR

Years 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014Consumer goods 3 950.8 4 505.9 4 822.4 5 211.8 5 734.8Food 839.1 902.7 989.6 1 089.3 1 196.9Tobacco 126.5 153.2 216.0 214.7 226.0Beverages 75.2 89.9 100.4 101.4 85.2Clothing and footwear

1 359.0 1 525.4 1 456.2 1 553.5 1 610.0

Medicines and cosmetics

534.3 635.6 701.0 803.3 927.7

Furniture and household appliances

573.2 655.0 748.1 775.4 880.3

Others 443.5 544.1 611.1 674.2 808.7Raw materials 6 824.3 9 403.1 8 965.5 9 678.5 9 135.6Iron and steel 658.7 900.3 720.4 618.0 548.0Other metals 1 784.5 2 485.6 2 291.9 2 407.5 2 246.0Chemicals 254.9 325.4 345.6 310.9 334.3Plastics and rubber 373.6 505.4 550.7 657.7 718.3Fertilizers 130.5 200.1 202.8 168.8 181.7Textiles 322.2 397.0 372.0 399.9 422.9Raw materials for the food industry

1 309.0 1 835.3 1 732.6 2 309.6 1 848.6

Wood products, paper and paperboard

322.5 387.2 403.3 440.1 474.5

Cement 11.3 13.6 27.8 22.0 17.3Raw tobacco 145.5 164.7 132.2 167.9 133.0Others 1 511.5 2 188.6 2 186.3 2 176.0 2 211.0Investment goods 2 666.9 3 532.5 3 492.6 3 970.3 4 301.6Machines and equipment

700.9 951.9 1 001.9 1 141.6 1 207.0

Electrical machines 341.7 551.3 453.6 548.0 502.9Vehicles 311.2 391.3 372.4 410.1 411.2Spare parts and equipment

580.5 765.5 859.9 1 062.4 1 149.4

Others 732.7 872.4 804.9 808.3 1 031.1Total non energy commodities

13 442.1 17 441.5 17 280.5 18 860.6 19 172.1

Mineral fuels, oils and electricity

2 113.6 2 814.9 3 481.3 3 385.0 2 909.8

Petroleum products 1 661.1 2 225.6 2 928.3 2 904.0 2 368.7Others 452.5 589.3 553.0 481.0 541.1Other Exports 5.5 7.9 8.3 25.9 33.9TOTAL EXPORTS /FOB/ 15 561.2 20 264.3 20 770.2 22 271.4 22 115.8



Structure of exports by commodity groups in 2014

0.2%Other Exports

13.2%Mineral fuels, oils

and electricity

19.5%Investment

goods

41.3%Raw materials

25.9%Consumer goods


Exports to the TOP 10 Bulgarian trade partner countries in 2014

0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000Netherlands

RussiaChina

BelgiumFranceGreece

RomaniaItaly

TurkeyGermany 2 657

2 0731 980

1 7491 481

948918

534528

496

Million EUR



IMPORTIn the recent years dynamics of imports as well as exports amendment have reported an increase. According to the balance of payments data, at the end of 2014 imports reached EUR 26.2 billion. The rate of growth in import was 1.4% in nominal terms compared to a year earlier.

Imports of investment goods reported a rise of 14% between January-December 2014 compared to the corresponding period of the previous year reflecting higher imported physical volumes, while prices in the group declined on an annual basis. In 2014 imports of consumer goods rose by 7% in line with the strengthened consumption in Bulgaria.

On the other hand energy commodities had a downward effect on nominal volumes of imports.

In 2014 national accounts data show that the importation of electrical machines, vehicles and clothing and footwear significantly increased among all commodity groups compared to 2013.

Imports by years

0

5000

10000

15000

20000

25000

30000

20142013201220112010

19 245

23 40625 459 25 828 26 189

Мillion EUR



Imports by commodity groupsMillion EUR

Years 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014Consumer goods 3 845.4 4 229.6 4 407.1 4 770.3 5 110.4Food, drinks and tobacco 1 176 1 381.7 1 508.8 1 545.9 1 600Furniture and household appliances

672.9 640.2 640.7 706.3 744.2

Medicines and cosmetics 801.5 911.9 940.7 1 025.8 1 130.5Clothing and footwear 463.3 464.7 481.2 530.5 595.8Automobiles 182 237.3 235.1 287.8 316.9Others 549.6 593.8 600.7 674 723Raw materials 6 866.6 8 774.4 8 755.7 9 138.1 9 111.3Ores 998.3 1 489.1 1 381.4 1 607.6 1 374.3Iron and steel 636 960.7 823.1 822.2 769.3Other metals 517.2 688.6 718.0 711.9 688.7Textiles 927.5 1 090.1 1 061.8 1 117.8 1 176.3Wood products, paper and paperboard

376 422.6 447.6 451.1 473.1

Chemicals 402.5 463.1 504.5 518 566.1Plastics and rubber 971 1 120.1 1 203.1 1 301.1 1 380.6Raw materials for the food industry

477.3 573.1 563.3 596.3 557.9

Raw skins 79.8 96.5 105.5 89.3 97Raw tobacco 97.6 102.5 117.9 133.4 114.7Others 1 383.3 1 767.9 1 829.5 1 789.3 1 913.3Investment goods 4 201.7 4 980 5 822.8 5 767.7 6 566.3Machines and equipment 1 349.2 1 569.7 1 709.8 2 058.4 2 158.7Electrical machines 772.4 778.6 819.4 801.2 895.3Vehicles 574.4 861.1 1 023.5 1 032.9 1 145Spare parts and equipment

746.6 1 075.1 1 406.8 963.2 1 003.9

Others 759.2 695.6 863.2 912 1 363.4Total non energy commodities

14 913.7 17 984 18 985.5 19 676 20 788


4 273.7 5 365.9 6 421.2 6 037.2 5 278.5

Fuels 3 410.2 4 179 5 181.1 4 646.2 3 876.1Crude oil and Natural gas 3 116.8 3 830.6 4 792.0 4 345.3 3 604.4Coal 247.7 304.1 225.9 139.4 146.8Others 45.7 44.2 163.3 161.5 124.9Others 863.5 1 187 1 240.1 1 391 1 402.4Oils 863.5 1 187 1 240.1 1 391 1 402.4Electricity 0 0 0 0 0Other Imports 57.4 56.2 52.4 114.8 122.7TOTAL IMPORTS /CIF/ 19 244.8 23 406.2 25 459.1 25 828.1 26 189.3



Structure of imports by commodity groups in 2014

0.5%Other Imports20.2%


25.1%Investment goods

34.8%Raw materials

19.5%Consumer goods

Million EUR


Imports from the TOP 10 Bulgarian trade partner countries in 2014

0 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000Czech Republic

PolandFranceGreeceTurkey

RomaniaChina

ItalyGermany

Russia 4 0752 937

1 8261 783

1 4061 397

1 167810

748550

Million EUR



FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENТ

Foreign direct investment in Bulgaria reached EUR 1.3 billion in 2014. Real estate, renting and business activities, Financial intermediation and Electricity, gas and water supply attracted the most investment.

The composition of FDI by country in 2014 suggests that foreign direct investment attracted from Netherlands (EUR 936 million), Austria (EUR 257 million) and Great Britain (EUR 176 million) accounted for the largest shares.

Foreign direct investment flows in Bulgaria by economic activity

Million EUR

Period 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014*

TOTAL 1 151.2 1 330.2 1 141.7 1 446.3 1 289.1

Health and social work -10.6 -3.6 9.2 -5.5 -0.1

Financial intermediation 202.8 257.2 -158.1 -46.2 173.2

Other community, social and personal service activities

-45.9 140.8 0.5 84.8 58.1

Manufacturing 541.8 283.5 529.8 419.7 62.2

Hotels and restaurants 51.7 141.2 65.5 25.8 3.9

Real estate, renting and business activities

-16.0 -251.8 -443.3 -210.3 501.0

Education 0.7 0.9 0.7 0.6 0.0

Transport, storage and communication

57.9 203.1 -363.6 218.5 55.6

Electricity, gas and water supply

324.6 450.7 737.1 349.5 113.1

Fishing 0.1 5.6 2.2 0.9 -0.9

Construction 110.2 -90.5 254.8 25.3 76.5

Not allocated 88.7 -8.9 6.5 180.6 114.2

Agriculture, hunting and forestry 0.0 13.5 5.8 -3.9 43.9

Wholesale and retail trade; repair of motor vehicles, motorcycles and personal and household goods

-190.5 38.1 262.8 104.6 66.7

Mining and quarrying 35.7 150.4 231.7 301.9 21.6

*Preliminary data Source: Bulgarian National Bank


Foreign direct investment flows in Bulgaria - TOP 10 countries in 2014

0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1000

BelgiumCyprusSpain

HungaryUSA

SwitzerlandRussian Federation

Great BritainAustria

Netherlands 936257

176117109

8252

352726

Million EUR


TOURISMTourism plays an important role in Bulgaria because of its economic social and employment potential. The number of international tourists has been growing rapidly. In 2014 Bulgaria was visited by 7.3 million tourists, which was by 6% more than a year earlier.

Foreign tourists in Bulgaria

0

1000

2000

3000

4000

5000

6000

7000

8000

20142013201220112010

6 047 6 328 6 541 6 8977 311Thousand

Source: Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Bulgaria


TOP 10 countries ranked by number of tourists in Bulgaria for 2014

0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200

United Kingdom Poland

Ukraine Serbia

Macedonia TurkeyRussia

Germany Romania

Greece 1 032947

714656

438408

312270

253247

Thousand


Тhe ranking by number of tourists for 2014 is headed by Greece with 1 032 tousand tourists (10.3%), followed by Romania with 947 thousand tourists and by Germany with 714 tousand tourists.

According to data from balance of payment, in 2014 the revenue from international tourism in Bulgaria exceeded EUR 3.1 billion, rising by 1.9% on a year earlier.

Revenue from international tourism in Bulgaria

2500

2600

2700

2800

2900

3000

3100

3200

20142013201220112010

2 747

2 8522 917

3 0583 116

Million EUR



CONSUMER PRICESConsumer price indices and annual inflationIn 2014 the inflation was -1.4%. This was as a result of the increase in the negative contribution of core inflation due to cheaper telecommunication services. The health services and the transport also had essential role for the downward trend in inflation, which started in mid-2013.

Consumer price index (annual average inflation rates - %)

-2

-1

0

1

2

3

4

5

20142013201220112010

2.4

4.2

3.0

0.9

-1.4

previous year=100

Source: National Statistical Institute

Annual average consumer price index by main categories (annual average inflation rates - %)

previous year=100

Main categories 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014Average consumer price index (CPI) 2.4 4.2 3.0 0.9 -1.4Food and non-alcoholic beverages -0.4 6.9 3.0 2.8 -1.0Alciholic beverages and tobacco 25.1 5.2 0.1 0.8 1.1Clothing and footwear -1.6 2.0 -0.2 -0.3 -1.1Housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels

0.5 2.2 7.4 -0.6 -2.0

Furnishings, household equipment and routine household maintenance

-0.7 -0.1 -0.5 0.1 -1.1

Health 3.2 2.3 1.1 -2.5 -3.4Transport 8.1 8.2 5.7 -0.6 -3.4Communication -0.8 -0.9 -0.8 0.0 -3.5Recreation and culture 2.0 -1.9 -2.6 -1.4 -0.7Education 5.7 2.6 6.3 3.0 1.7Restaurants and hotels 1.8 2.7 3.0 3.6 1.2Miscellaneous goods and service 4.5 3.0 1.3 0.7 -0.2



LABOUR MARKETLabour forceAccording to the latest statistics, in 2014 the labour force in Bulgaria consisted of 3.4 million people – 53% men and 47% women.

Most of the labour force (86%) has completed some forms of higher or upper secondary education.

Labour forceThousand

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014Total 3 400.9 3 341.4 3 344.3 3 371.2 3 365.9By sexMale 1 804.7 1 786.1 1 782.8 1 796.6 1 798.6Female 1 596.2 1 555.3 1 561.5 1 574.6 1 567.3By place of residenceUrban 2 624.2 2 598.2 2 605.9 2 631.1 2 636.7Rural 776.6 743.2 738.4 740.1 729.2By age15-24 269.9 253.6 247.9 229.6 200.325-34 699.8 798.8 788.3 778.2 767.735-44 1 018.8 899.2 919.1 939.1 941.045-54 903.6 830.7 813.6 814.8 821.055-64 464.2 519.9 534.9 560.9 578.765 and over 44.5 39.1 40.4 48.5 57.2


Labour force by level of education in 201471.1Primary or lower390.9

Lower secondary

1 906.8Upper secondary

997.1Higher

Thousand



Employment and unemploymentIn 2014 the employment started to recover step-by-step due to both an increase of the economic activity and demand for employees by companies.

The number of employees reached almost 3 million people and showed a slight increase compared to 2013.

Employment2010 2011 2012 2013 2014*

Employment rate (15-64 years), %

59.7 58.4 58.8 59.5 61.0

ThousandTotal employment 3 052.7 2 965.3 2 933.9 2 934.9 2 981.4Employees in private enterprises

1 933.4 1 893.7 1 872.5 1 859.3 1 903.6

Employees in public enterprises

729.3 712.5 721.5 719.3 705.5

Self-employed 242.7 221.3 210.9 221.6 238.1Employers 115.1 107.6 104.5 115.1 113.5Unpaid family workers 32.2 30.2 24.5 19.6 20.6

*Preliminary data Source: National Statistical Institute

Labour costs in Bulgaria are more than 6.5 times lower than the EU average.

In 2014 the average monthly wage per employee amounted to EUR 423, increased in nominal terms by 6.7%. The employer pays social security costs for employees of 13 % on top of their salary.

Average monthly salary of employees by labor contract

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

400

450

2014*2013201220112010

331351

374396

423

EUR

*Preliminary data Source: National Statistical Institute, Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry


The 28 Regional Chamber of Commerce and Industry

http://www.bcci.bg/chambres-en.html

Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry

9 Iskar str., 1058 Sofia, Bulgaria

Tel.: (+359 2) 8117 400

Fax: (+359 2) 987 32 09

Web site: www.bcci.bg

E-mail: [email protected]

BULGARIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Established in 1895

http://www.bcci.bg/chambres-en.html

http://www.bcci.bg

mailto:[email protected]


BULGARIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY – 120 YEARS IN SERVICE

TO BUSINESS а The BCCI is the leading employers’ association in Bulgaria – comprising of over 53 000 members.

а It’s an independent, non-profit NGO that supports, promotes and represents the interests of its members and contributes to the development of international economic cooperation.

а The BCCI is based on the principles of voluntary membership, autonomy and self-financing and seeks to establish ethical and socially responsible relationships in business.

а BCCI contributes to the creation of a more favourable business environment and dedicates many efforts to the promotion and support of entrepreneurship and innovation initiatives.

а The BCCI is a member of the Association of the Organizations of Bulgarian Employers (AOBE) - a free union of the employers’ organizations that are officially acknowledged as representative according to the operating legislation.

а The BCCI is a regular member of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), World Chambers Federation (WCF), Association of European Chambers of Commerce (Eurochambres), World Trade Centers Association (WTCA), Association of the Balkan Chambers (ABC), Regional Cooperation Council, International Council on Cooperation, BSEC Business Council, Central European Initiative (CEI), GS1 International Association, Enterprise Europe Network (EEN).

а The BCCI participates in over 247 public-private bodies and over 10 Joint Chambers of Commerce and Councils.

а 28 Regional Chambers of Commerce and Industry are united in the Unified System of Bulgarian Chambers of Commerce and Industry.

а The 105 Sectorial Organizations are united in a Council of Sectorial Organizations at the BCCI.

а At BCCI operates Arbitration Court. а BCCI is a universal organization in which all members are companies from sectors and of different sizes, which comply with Code of Business Ethics.

а BCCI serves all companies, regardless of their status.

Contribution of BCCI’s members to the Bulgarian economy, 2014 (%)

0 20 40 60 80 100

Persons employed with labor contract in the country

Gross domestic product in the country

National export of good and services 100

100

100

72.09

48.95

45.16

national level=100

Export by BCCI's members

Gross domestic product ofthe BCCI's members

Persons employed with labor contractat BCCI's members

Source: National Statistical Institute, Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry


Structures and servicesTRADE REGISTER AND MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORATEhttp://www.bcci.bg/trade-reg-services.html

Main activities:1. Trade Register Services

а Registration in the Unified voluntary trade register of the BCCI – over 53 000 companies and organizations and other legal subjects;

а Obligatory registration of commercial representative offices of foreign persons in Bulgaria;

а Maintenance and updating of the information on file subject to registration;

а Issuing of certificates and references in Bulgarian and foreign languages for the status and financial condition of the registered legal subjects;

а Providing oral and written references in Bulgarian and foreign languages with data about the registered legal subjects.

2. Membership with BCCI.3. Issuance and validation of documents:

а Certificates of origin of goods; а Validation of signatures.

4. Issuance and validation of ATA Carnets.5. Issuance of Force-Majeure Certificates.6. Assistance for validation of invitation-declarations for

business trips of foreigners to the Republic of Bulgaria.7. Assitance in obtaining information about the existence and

current status of foreign companies.8. Obtaining a qualified electronic signature certificate to

physical persons and legal entities respectively StampIT Doc and StampIT DocPro.

9. Excellent SME certificate.10. General Average Adjusters’ Office.11. Carrying out coordination and keeping constant relations

with the 28 Regional Chambers of Commerce and Industry (RCCI).

12. Carrying out coordination with the sectorial organizations members of the Council of Sectorial Organisations with the BCCI.

For Contacts: Zdravka Georgieva, DirectorTel.: (+359 2) 987 88 84, 8117 476, Fax: (+359 2) 987 32 09E-mail: [email protected]

http://www.bcci.bg/trade-reg-services.html



EUROPEAN INTEGRATION AND EUROPEAN PROJECTS DIRECTORATEhttp://www.bcci.bg/projectsBCCI.htmhttp://www.bcci.bg/seminars-en.htmlhttp://www.bcci.bg/en-een.htmlhttp://www.bcci.bg/economic-analyses-en.html

Main activities:1. Participation in EU funded projects.2. Enhancing the BCCI’s capacity to manage activities under EU

programmes.3. Supporting the development and strengthening of the SMEs.4. Enterprise Europe Network is the largest information and

consulting network in the world that helps SMEs to take advantage of business opportunities in the EU single market, to increase their competitiveness in Europe and find reliable technology, business and project partners.

The Network experts provide information and consultancy services concerning the process of internationalization, the transfer of new technologies and protection of IPR. EEN increases business awareness on EU Laws & Standards and EU funding. Furthermore it provides the European Commission with a SMEs feedback on EU policies.

5. Business research inquiries at a request of the customers.6. Economic analyses by sectors.7. Database references about the financial results of a company

or a group of companies.8. Annual classification TOP 100 – The leading companies in the

Bulgarian economy.9. Provision of information based on the annual financial

statements of the companies.10. Publication of annual financial statements.

For Contacts: Mariana Tancheva, DirectorTel.: (02) 988 34 82; 8117 508, Fax: (02) 987 32 09E-mail: [email protected]

INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION AND INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS DIRECTORATEhttp://www.bcci.bg/business-delegations-en.htmlhttp://www.bcci.bg/seminars-en.htmlhttp://www.bcci.bg/company-presentation.html

Main activities:1. Assistance for establishing business contacts with partners

from all over the word.2. Organizing workshops and seminars with Bulgarian and

foreign lecturers for entrepreneurs.3. Organizing business missions abroad and business forums

and events in Bulgaria.

For Contacts: Gabriela Dimitrova, DirectorTel.: (02) 987 25 38; 8117 489, Fax: (02) 987 32 09E-mail: [email protected], [email protected]

http://www.bcci.bg/projectsBCCI.htm

http://www.bcci.bg/seminars-en.html

http://www.bcci.bg/en-een.html

http://www.bcci.bg/economic-analyses-en.html


http://www.bcci.bg/business-delegations-en.html

http://www.bcci.bg/seminars-en.html

http://www.bcci.bg/company-presentation.html




ARBITARAION COURT AT BCCIhttp://www.bcci.bg/arbitration/index.html

1. Out-of-court tribunal institution for fast and efficient settlement of private law property disputes.

2. Four times lower taxes for big claims in comparison with the taxes, applied by public court.

3. Possibility to include foreign arbitrators, if the company has more than 50% foreign capital.

4. 98% of the cases are solved within 12 months period.5. Possibility to involve private law enforcement agents.

Arbitration Clause, recommended by the BCCI:

“Any disputes arising from this contract or concerning it, including disputes arising from or concerning its interpretation, invalidity, non-performance of termination, as well as disputes about filling gaps in a contract or its adaption to newly arisen circumstances, shall be settled by the Arbitration Court at the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in accordance with its Rules for cases based on Arbitration Agreements.”

For Contacts: Christian Takoff, PresidentTel.: (+359 2) 8117 434, Fax: (+359 2) 987 32 09E-mail: [email protected]

GS1 BULGARIA COUNCIL AT THE BCCIhttp://www.gs1bg.org

GS1 is a leading global organisation dedicated to the design and implementation of global standards and solutions to improve efficiency and visibility in supply and demand chains globally and across sectors.

For Contacts: Tzveta Bratanova, CEOTel.: (+359 2) 8117 604E-mail: [email protected]

http://www.bcci.bg/arbitration/index.html


http://www.gs1bg.org/lang_en/



BCCI – CENTRE FOR VOCATIONAL TRAINING, TRANSLATIONS, CONSULTATIONS AND COMPANY SERVICES EOODhttp://www.bcci.bg/consultations-en.html

Main activities:1. Consultations on economic activity:

а Provision of business information; а Drafting of companies’ profiles; а Provision of services to companies in carrying out their commercial activity;

а Standardization and quality control systems; а Personnel planning, development and management; а Patents, trademarks and protection of intellectual property; а Application and requirements of trade and customs regimes; а Evaluation of assets and companies.

2. Consultations on legal issues: а Registration of companies; а Drafting of commercial and specific contracts; а Disputes in connection with infringed contractual relationships.

3. Consultations on projects for financing: а Drafting of project proposals for financing; а Elaboration of business plans and projects; а Preparation of tender and competition documentation; а Provision of information on financial and insurance issues, franchising, and venture capital.

4. Consultations on marketing research: а Internal and international markets; а Elaboration of analyses and development strategies; а Information on the status of particular sectors, branches or regions, commodity markets and prices.

5. Consultations on tax issues6. Filling in/elaboration of commercial documents7. Translation / interpretation services:

а Translation of corporate and private documents from/to more than 20 languages;

а Certification of documents before government and public offices and institutions;

а Legalization of documents at the Consular sections of foreign missions in the country.

8. Training: а Organizing of seminars and training courses for expanding and improvement of personnel qualifications;

а Gaining skills and competences for professional development.9. Fairs and Exhibitions:

а Organization of specialized exhibitions and fairs in Bulgaria; а Organizing individually, collectively or formal participation of Bulgarian companies in International fairs and exhibitions abroad.

For Contacts: Margarita DamyanovaTel.: (+359 2) 8117 477, Fax: (+359 2) 987 32 09e-mail: [email protected]

http://www.bcci.bg/consultations-en.html



INDUSTRIAL ZONESFor more information and details of each zone, visit the following address:http://www.bcci.bg/zones/

INDUSTRIAL PARK – STRIMON, Simitli

INDUSTRIAL AND BUSINESS PARK AITOS, Aitos

BURGAS INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Bugras

INDUSTRIAL ZONE “MEDEN RUDNIK”, Burgas

INDUSTRIAL ZONE “POBEDA”, Burgas

INDUSTRIAL ZONE “NORTH”, Burgas

INDUSTRIAL ZONE “SOUTH”, Burgas

BALGAROVO INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Balgaravo

DOBRICH BUSINESS ZONE, Dobrich

INDUSTRIAL ZONE “NORTH”, Dobrich

INDUSTRIAL ZONE “WEST”, Dobrich

GENERAL TOSHEVO INDUSTRIAL ZONE, General Toshevo

GABROVO INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Gabrovo

DIMITROVGRAD INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Dimitrovgrad

FREE ZONE - SVILENGRAD, Svilengrad

SVILENGRAD INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Svilengrad

INDUSTRIAL ZONE KARDZHALI - SOUTH, Kardzhali

LETNITSA INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Letnitsa

TROYAN INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Troyan

TECHNOLOGY PARK, Montana

INDUSTRIAL PARK - PAZARDZHIK, Septemvri

INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Pernik

INDUSTRIAL PARK PERNIK - EAST, Pernik

INDUSTRIAL ZONE PERNIK, Pernik

INDUSTRIAL ZONE DOLNA MITROPOLIA, Dolna Mitropolia

INDUSTRIAL ZONE - PLEVEN, Pleven

TELISH (PLEVEN) INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Telish

INDUSTRIAL PARK RHODOPES, Plovdiv

KRUMOVO LOGISTICS ZONE, Plovdiv

ASSENOVGRAD INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Asenovgrad

MARITSA INDUSTRIAL AND COMMERCIAL ZONE, Plovdiv

http://www.bcci.bg/zones/

http://www.bcci.bg/zones/index.php?zone=116
































NORTH INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Plovdiv

PLOVDIV FREE ZONE, Plovdiv

KALOYANOVO INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Kaloyanovo

INDUSTRIAL AND COMMERCIAL ZONE KARADZHALOVO, Karadzhalovo

KUKLEN INDUSTRIAL AND COMMERCIAL ZONE, Kuklen

RAKOVSKI INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Stryama

BUSINESS ZONE “PERISTAR” - RAZGRAD, Razgrad

RUSE EAST INDUSTRIAL PARK, Ruse

INDUSTRIAL PARK RUSE, Ruse

IVANOVO INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Shtraklevo

KASPICHAN INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Kaspichan

SHUMEN INDUSTRIAL PARK, Shumen

DANUBE INDUSTRIAL PARK, Silistra

TCHAVDAR PARK BOTEVGRAD, Botevgrad

INDUSTRIAL PARK SOFIA, Sofia

INDUSTRIAL PARK SOFIA EAST, Elin Pelin

SAMOKOV INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Samokov

INDUSTRIAL PARK PROMOEST BULGARIA, Sofia

INDUSTRIAL PARK WEST, Sofia

ELIN PELIN INDUSTRIAL PARK, Elin Pelin

GORNA MALINA INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Gorna Malina

INDUSTRIAL PARK - PETARCH, Petarch

STARA ZAGORA INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Elenino

INDUSTRIAL ZONE ZSK, Stara Zagora

TARGOVISHTE INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Targovishte

INDUSTRIAL ZONE VARNA - WEST, Devnya

FIRST INDUSTRIAL ZONE - AVREN, Avren

INDUSTRIAL ZONE VETRINO, Vetrino

SUVOROVO INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Suvorovo

VARNA WEST INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Varna

INDUSTRIAL ZONE - SOUTH, STRAZHITSA, Strazhitsa

SVISHTOV INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Svishtov

VRATZA INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Vratza


































New building of the BCCI9 Iskar Str., Sofia

The building of SofiaCommercial and Industrial Chamber2 Slavianska Str., Sofiabuilt in 1914

The building of the BCCI42 Parchevich Str., Sofia

Opened 1995

Documents

The Booklet has been compiled National Statistical ... · Bulgaria in figures – 2015 edition 3 Facts about Bulgaria а EU, NATO and WTO Membership а Strategic geographical location