Deputy Minister Barbalov: Consumer Protection Is a Leading Priority in the Adoption of the Euro

"For us, the most important task during the introduction of the euro is to protect the interests of Bulgarian citizens and to ensure that no one is disadvantaged," stated Deputy Minister of Economy and Industry Dontcho Barbalov in Veliko Tarnovo, during an information meeting held as part of the National Information Campaign on the introduction of the euro in Bulgaria.

He stressed that the Government's aim is for the process to be transparent, fair, and free from the risk of unjustified price increases.

The Ministry of Economy and Industry, working in close cooperation with the Consumer Protection Commission, the Ministry of Finance, the National Revenue Agency, the Financial Supervision Commission, and other institutions, is implementing a package of measures designed to secure a smooth transition from the lev to the euro. These include mandatory dual display of prices, strict compliance with rules for conversion and rounding, and systematic monitoring of the prices of essential goods and services.

"Through these measures we are safeguarding consumers' rights, especially those of the most vulnerable groups, and preserving households' purchasing power," Barbalov underlined.

He recalled that the Ministry has issued "Guidelines on the Correct Application of the Obligation of Dual Display of Prices for Goods and Services", intended to support businesses.

"The deadline of 8 October is approaching, until which supervisory authorities will issue only instructions to traders without imposing penalties. After this date, active enforcement of the law will begin," emphasised Dontcho Barbalov.

During the event, the Deputy Minister Barbalov explained that the Ministry of Economy and Industry monitors 30 goods and services on a monthly basis that are fundamental to business pricing, including copper, steel, aluminium, oil, and petrol. "These are products that directly influence final industrial prices. I can assure you that all prices are currently lower compared to the same period in 2024. At this stage, there are no global factors that would justify a sharp rise in prices," Barbalov noted.

"The adoption of the euro is a national priority, one that can only be achieved successfully through unity, consistency, and cooperation between the state, businesses, and citizens. It is our responsibility to protect the interests of Bulgarian consumers and to guarantee a fair transition to the new currency," concluded Dontcho Barbalov.

Also attending the meeting were Temenushka Petkova, Minister of Finance; Valentin Mundrov, Minister of E-Government; Atanas Zapryanov, Minister of Defence; Miroslav Borshosh, Minister of Tourism; Iliya Lingorski, Member of the Governing Council of the Bulgarian National Bank; Engineer Daniel Panov, Mayor of Veliko Tarnovo; together with representatives of local authorities, non-governmental organisations, businesses, and citizens.