The Booklet has been compiled by courtesy of: National Statistical Institute and Bulgarian National Bank.

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

PREPRESS: Vezni Ltd. E-mail: [email protected] Ltd. E-mail: Vezni PREPRESS: at the time it went to press, June 2015. Dear business partners, On the eve of the 120th anniversary of the establishment of the chambers of commerce and industry in , 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

Bulgaria in figures – 2015 edition 1 REPUBLIC OF BULGARIA

North Central region North-West region North-East region Montana Ruse Varna So a (cap) So a South-East region South-West region South Central region

General data

State government: Parliamentary Republic

Head of state: President

Head of government: Prime-Minister

Capital:

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)

2 Bulgaria in figures – 2015 edition Facts about Bulgaria ааEU, NATO and WTO Membership ааStrategic geographical location and openness to foreign markets: crossroad between Europe, Asia and Africa ааStability in financial environment: Bulgaria’s debt is the third lowest in the EU 28 (27.6% of GDP) as of 2014 ааBusiness-friendly environment: Simple and low taxation ааCompetitive 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 -3.2 -2.0 -0.7 -0.9 -2.8 (% of GDP) 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 figures – 2015 edition 3 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

Tax Misery & Reform Index 2009 7 67 Open budget index 2012 17 100 The Global Gender Gap Rankings 2014 22 142 Net index explorer December 2014 25 195 EuroHealth Consumer Index 2013 30 36 Global peace index 2014 32 162 Doing Business 2015 38 189 Index of Globalization 2014 39 207 Economic Freedom of the World 2014 40 152 Environmental performance index 2014 41 178 Best Countries for Business 2014 42 145 Global Innovation Index 2014 44 143 Logistics performance Index 2014 47 160 Prosperity Index 2014 48 142 International Property Index 2014 50 97 Democracy Index 2013 53 167 Global competitiveness index 2014-2015 54 144 Index of Economic Freedom 2015 55 178 Country Attractiveness Index in the Venture Capital & Private Equity 2014 56 118 World Competitiveness 2014 56 60 Human Development Index 2014 58 185 Corruption perceptions index 2014 69 175 E–Government Development Index 2014 73 193 Freedom of the press 2014 78 197 050 100 150 200 250 Bulgaria's rank Total number of ranked countries Source: Respective websites

4 Bulgaria in figures – 2015 edition Focus on taxation Flat-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), % Bulgaria 10.0 10.0 20.0 Lithuania 15.0 15.0 21.0 Romania 16.0 16.0 24.0 Latvia 24.0 15.0 21.0 Estonia 21.0 21.0 20.0 Czech Republic 22.0 19.0 21.0 Hungary 16.0 20.6 27.0 Cyprus 35.0 12.5 19.0 Slovak Republic 25.0 22.0 20.0 Poland 32.0 19.0 23.0 Ireland 48.0 12.5 23.0 United Kingdom 45.0 21.0 20.0 Luxembourg 43.6 29.2 15.0 Malta 35.0 35.0 18.0 Slovenia 50.0 17.0 22.0 Croatia 47.2 20.0 25.0 Greece 46.0 26.0 23.0 Austria 50.0 25.0 20.0 Germany 47.5 30.2 19.0 Netherlands 52.0 25.0 21.0 Finland 51.5 24.5 24.0 Italy 47.9 31.4 22.0 Spain 52.0 30.0 21.0 Sweden 56.6 22.0 25.0 Denmark 55.6 24.5 25.0 France 50.3 38.0 20.0 Belgium 53.7 34.0 21.0 Portugal 56.5 31.5 23.0

Tax on personal income Tax on corporate income VAT (standard rates) Source: Eurostat

Bulgaria in figures – 2015 edition 5 GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT The 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 % change compared to 6 the previous year 4 2 0 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 -2 -4 -6 -8 European Union 28 Bulgaria 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 current prices, EUR 12500 12 233 11 997 12000 11 910 11500 11 378 11000

10500 10 201 10000 9500 9000 2010 2011 2012* 2013* 2014* *Preliminary data Source: National Statistical Institute, Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry

6 Bulgaria in figures – 2015 edition Gross Domestic Product and Gross Value Added by economic sectors and economic activity groupings at the current year prices Million EUR Economic sectors and 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014* economic activity groupings Agriculture, forestry and 1 620 1 899 1 916 1 932 1 903 fishing Mining and quarrying; 6 613 8 301 8 507 8 184 8 508 manufacturing; electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply; water supply; sewerage, waste management and remediation activities Construction 2 209 2 177 2 090 1 690 1 736 Wholesale and retail 6 566 6 949 7 125 7 561 7 699 trade; repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles; transportation and storage; accommodation and food service activities Information and 1 763 1 885 1 815 1 989 2 014 communication Financial and insurance 2 603 2 957 2 739 2 541 2 791 activities Real estate activities 3 691 3 829 3 745 3 797 3 837 Professional, scientific 1 771 1 896 2 101 1 976 1 969 and technical activities; administrative and support service activities Public administration and 4 036 4 193 4 316 4 752 4 754 defence; compulsory social security; education; human health and social work activities Arts, entertainment 883 835 860 921 920 and recreation, repair of household goods and other services Total Economic 31 756 34 921 35 216 35 344 36 131 Adjustments (taxes less 5 008 5 182 5 710 5 704 5 879 subsidies on products ) 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

Bulgaria in figures – 2015 edition 7 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, scientic and technical activities; administrative and support service activities 23.5% Mining, quarrying and 10.6% manufacturing Real estate activities 7.7% Financial and insurance activities 4.8% 5.6% Construction Information and communication 2.5% Arts, entertainment 5.3% and recreation, repair Agriculture, forestry of household goods and shing and other services 13.2% 21.3% Public administration and defence; Wholesale and compulsory social security; retail trade education; human health and social work activities

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

8 Bulgaria in figures – 2015 edition EXPORT Exports 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 Мillion EUR 25000 22 271 22 116 20 264 20 770 20000 15 561 15000

10000

5000

0 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Source: Bulgarian National Bank

Bulgaria in figures – 2015 edition 9 Exports by commodity groups Million EUR Years 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Consumer goods 3 950.8 4 505.9 4 822.4 5 211.8 5 734.8 Food 839.1 902.7 989.6 1 089.3 1 196.9 Tobacco 126.5 153.2 216.0 214.7 226.0 Beverages 75.2 89.9 100.4 101.4 85.2 Clothing and 1 359.0 1 525.4 1 456.2 1 553.5 1 610.0 footwear Medicines and 534.3 635.6 701.0 803.3 927.7 cosmetics Furniture and 573.2 655.0 748.1 775.4 880.3 household appliances Others 443.5 544.1 611.1 674.2 808.7 Raw materials 6 824.3 9 403.1 8 965.5 9 678.5 9 135.6 Iron and steel 658.7 900.3 720.4 618.0 548.0 Other metals 1 784.5 2 485.6 2 291.9 2 407.5 2 246.0 Chemicals 254.9 325.4 345.6 310.9 334.3 Plastics and rubber 373.6 505.4 550.7 657.7 718.3 Fertilizers 130.5 200.1 202.8 168.8 181.7 Textiles 322.2 397.0 372.0 399.9 422.9 Raw materials for the 1 309.0 1 835.3 1 732.6 2 309.6 1 848.6 food industry Wood products, paper 322.5 387.2 403.3 440.1 474.5 and paperboard Cement 11.3 13.6 27.8 22.0 17.3 Raw tobacco 145.5 164.7 132.2 167.9 133.0 Others 1 511.5 2 188.6 2 186.3 2 176.0 2 211.0 Investment goods 2 666.9 3 532.5 3 492.6 3 970.3 4 301.6 Machines and 700.9 951.9 1 001.9 1 141.6 1 207.0 equipment Electrical machines 341.7 551.3 453.6 548.0 502.9 Vehicles 311.2 391.3 372.4 410.1 411.2 Spare parts and 580.5 765.5 859.9 1 062.4 1 149.4 equipment Others 732.7 872.4 804.9 808.3 1 031.1 Total non energy 13 442.1 17 441.5 17 280.5 18 860.6 19 172.1 commodities Mineral fuels, oils 2 113.6 2 814.9 3 481.3 3 385.0 2 909.8 and electricity Petroleum products 1 661.1 2 225.6 2 928.3 2 904.0 2 368.7 Others 452.5 589.3 553.0 481.0 541.1 Other Exports 5.5 7.9 8.3 25.9 33.9 TOTAL EXPORTS /FOB/ 15 561.2 20 264.3 20 770.2 22 271.4 22 115.8 Source: Bulgarian National Bank

10 Bulgaria in figures – 2015 edition Structure of exports by commodity groups in 2014

13.2% 0.2% Mineral fuels, oils Other Exports and electricity 25.9% Consumer goods

19.5% Investment goods

41.3% Raw materials

Source: Bulgarian National Bank

Exports to the TOP 10 Bulgarian trade partner countries in 2014 Million EUR

Germany 2 657 Turkey 2 073 Italy 1 980 Romania 1 749 Greece 1 481 France 948 Belgium 918 China 534 Russia 528 Netherlands 496 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000

Source: Bulgarian National Bank

Bulgaria in figures – 2015 edition 11 IMPORT In 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 Мillion EUR 30000 25 459 25 828 26 189 25000 23 406

20000 19 245

15000

10000

5000

0 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Source: Bulgarian National Bank

12 Bulgaria in figures – 2015 edition Imports by commodity groups Million EUR Years 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Consumer goods 3 845.4 4 229.6 4 407.1 4 770.3 5 110.4 Food, drinks and tobacco 1 176 1 381.7 1 508.8 1 545.9 1 600 Furniture and 672.9 640.2 640.7 706.3 744.2 household appliances Medicines and cosmetics 801.5 911.9 940.7 1 025.8 1 130.5 Clothing and footwear 463.3 464.7 481.2 530.5 595.8 Automobiles 182 237.3 235.1 287.8 316.9 Others 549.6 593.8 600.7 674 723 Raw materials 6 866.6 8 774.4 8 755.7 9 138.1 9 111.3 Ores 998.3 1 489.1 1 381.4 1 607.6 1 374.3 Iron and steel 636 960.7 823.1 822.2 769.3 Other metals 517.2 688.6 718.0 711.9 688.7 Textiles 927.5 1 090.1 1 061.8 1 117.8 1 176.3 Wood products, paper 376 422.6 447.6 451.1 473.1 and paperboard Chemicals 402.5 463.1 504.5 518 566.1 Plastics and rubber 971 1 120.1 1 203.1 1 301.1 1 380.6 Raw materials for the 477.3 573.1 563.3 596.3 557.9 food industry Raw skins 79.8 96.5 105.5 89.3 97 Raw tobacco 97.6 102.5 117.9 133.4 114.7 Others 1 383.3 1 767.9 1 829.5 1 789.3 1 913.3 Investment goods 4 201.7 4 980 5 822.8 5 767.7 6 566.3 Machines and equipment 1 349.2 1 569.7 1 709.8 2 058.4 2 158.7 Electrical machines 772.4 778.6 819.4 801.2 895.3 Vehicles 574.4 861.1 1 023.5 1 032.9 1 145 Spare parts and 746.6 1 075.1 1 406.8 963.2 1 003.9 equipment Others 759.2 695.6 863.2 912 1 363.4 Total non energy 14 913.7 17 984 18 985.5 19 676 20 788 commodities Mineral fuels, oils 4 273.7 5 365.9 6 421.2 6 037.2 5 278.5 and electricity Fuels 3 410.2 4 179 5 181.1 4 646.2 3 876.1 Crude oil and Natural gas 3 116.8 3 830.6 4 792.0 4 345.3 3 604.4 Coal 247.7 304.1 225.9 139.4 146.8 Others 45.7 44.2 163.3 161.5 124.9 Others 863.5 1 187 1 240.1 1 391 1 402.4 Oils 863.5 1 187 1 240.1 1 391 1 402.4 Electricity 0 0 0 0 0 Other Imports 57.4 56.2 52.4 114.8 122.7 TOTAL IMPORTS /CIF/ 19 244.8 23 406.2 25 459.1 25 828.1 26 189.3 Source: Bulgarian National Bank

Bulgaria in figures – 2015 edition 13 Structure of imports by commodity groups in 2014

Million EUR 0.5% Other Imports 20.2% 19.5% Mineral fuels, oils Consumer goods and electricity

25.1% Investment goods 34.8% Raw materials

Source: Bulgarian National Bank

Imports from the TOP 10 Bulgarian trade partner countries in 2014 Million EUR

Russia 4 075 Germany 2 937 Italy 1 826 China 1 783 Romania 1 406 Turkey 1 397 Greece 1 167 France 810 Poland 748 Czech Republic 550 0 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000

Source: Bulgarian National Bank

14 Bulgaria in figures – 2015 edition 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 -45.9 140.8 0.5 84.8 58.1 personal service activities 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 -16.0 -251.8 -443.3 -210.3 501.0 business activities Education 0.7 0.9 0.7 0.6 0.0 Transport, storage and 57.9 203.1 -363.6 218.5 55.6 communication Electricity, gas and water 324.6 450.7 737.1 349.5 113.1 supply 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; -190.5 38.1 262.8 104.6 66.7 repair of motor vehicles, motorcycles and personal and household goods Mining and quarrying 35.7 150.4 231.7 301.9 21.6 *Preliminary data Source: Bulgarian National Bank

Bulgaria in figures – 2015 edition 15 Foreign direct investment flows in Bulgaria - TOP 10 countries in 2014 Million EUR Netherlands 936 Austria 257 Great Britain 176 Russian Federation 117 Switzerland 109 USA 82 Hungary 52 Spain 35 Cyprus 27 Belgium 26 0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1000

Source: Bulgarian National Bank

TOURISM Tourism 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 Thousand 8000 7 311 6 897 7000 6 328 6 541 6 047 6000 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Source: Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Bulgaria

16 Bulgaria in figures – 2015 edition TOP 10 countries ranked by number of tourists in Bulgaria for 2014 Thousand Greece 1 032 Romania 947 Germany 714 Russia 656 Turkey 438 Macedonia 408 Serbia 312 Ukraine 270 Poland 253 United Kingdom 247 0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200

Source: Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Bulgaria

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 exceeded EUR 3.1 billion, rising by 1.9% on a year earlier.

Revenue from international tourism in Bulgaria Million EUR

3200 3 116 3100 3 058 3000 2 917 2900 2 852

2800 2 747 2700 2600 2500 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Source: Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Bulgaria

Bulgaria in figures – 2015 edition 17 CONSUMER PRICES Consumer price indices and annual inflation In 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 - %) 5 previous year=100 4.2 4 3.0 3 2.4 2 0.9 1 0 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 -1 -1.4 -2 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 2014 Average consumer price index (CPI) 2.4 4.2 3.0 0.9 -1.4 Food and non-alcoholic beverages -0.4 6.9 3.0 2.8 -1.0 Alciholic beverages and tobacco 25.1 5.2 0.1 0.8 1.1 Clothing and footwear -1.6 2.0 -0.2 -0.3 -1.1 Housing, water, electricity, gas and 0.5 2.2 7.4 -0.6 -2.0 other fuels Furnishings, household equipment -0.7 -0.1 -0.5 0.1 -1.1 and routine household maintenance Health 3.2 2.3 1.1 -2.5 -3.4 Transport 8.1 8.2 5.7 -0.6 -3.4 Communication -0.8 -0.9 -0.8 0.0 -3.5 Recreation and culture 2.0 -1.9 -2.6 -1.4 -0.7 Education 5.7 2.6 6.3 3.0 1.7 Restaurants and hotels 1.8 2.7 3.0 3.6 1.2 Miscellaneous goods and service 4.5 3.0 1.3 0.7 -0.2 Source: National Statistical Institute 18 Bulgaria in figures – 2015 edition LABOUR MARKET Labour force According 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 force Thousand 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Total 3 400.9 3 341.4 3 344.3 3 371.2 3 365.9 By sex Male 1 804.7 1 786.1 1 782.8 1 796.6 1 798.6 Female 1 596.2 1 555.3 1 561.5 1 574.6 1 567.3 By place of residence Urban 2 624.2 2 598.2 2 605.9 2 631.1 2 636.7 Rural 776.6 743.2 738.4 740.1 729.2 By age 15-24 269.9 253.6 247.9 229.6 200.3 25-34 699.8 798.8 788.3 778.2 767.7 35-44 1 018.8 899.2 919.1 939.1 941.0 45-54 903.6 830.7 813.6 814.8 821.0 55-64 464.2 519.9 534.9 560.9 578.7 65 and over 44.5 39.1 40.4 48.5 57.2 Source: National Statistical Institute

Labour force by level of education in 2014 71.1 Thousand 390.9 Primary or lower Lower secondary 997.1 Higher

1 906.8 Upper secondary Source: National Statistical Institute

Bulgaria in figures – 2015 edition 19 Employment and unemployment In 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.

Employment 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014* Employment rate 59.7 58.4 58.8 59.5 61.0 (15-64 years), % Thousand Total employment 3 052.7 2 965.3 2 933.9 2 934.9 2 981.4 Employees in private 1 933.4 1 893.7 1 872.5 1 859.3 1 903.6 enterprises Employees in public 729.3 712.5 721.5 719.3 705.5 enterprises Self-employed 242.7 221.3 210.9 221.6 238.1 Employers 115.1 107.6 104.5 115.1 113.5 Unpaid 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 EUR 450 423 396 400 374 351 350 331 300 250 200 150 100 50 0 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014* *Preliminary data Source: National Statistical Institute, Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry

20 Bulgaria in figures – 2015 edition BULGARIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY Established in 1895

The 28 Regional Chamber of Commerce and Industry http://www.bcci.bg/chambres-en.html

Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry 9 str., 1058 Sofia, Bulgaria Tel.: (+359 2) 8117 400 Fax: (+359 2) 987 32 09 Web site: www.bcci.bg E-mail: [email protected]

Bulgaria in figures – 2015 edition 21 BULGARIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY – 120 YEARS IN SERVICE TO BUSINESS аа The BCCI is the leading employers’ association in Bulgaria – comprising of over 53 000 members. аа 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. аа 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. аа 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. аа 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. аа 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). аа The BCCI participates in over 247 public-private bodies and over 10 Joint Chambers of Commerce and Councils. аа 28 Regional Chambers of Commerce and Industry are united in the Unified System of Bulgarian Chambers of Commerce and Industry. аа The 105 Sectorial Organizations are united in a Council of Sectorial Organizations at the BCCI. аа At BCCI operates Arbitration Court. аа BCCI is a universal organization in which all members are companies from sectors and of different sizes, which comply with Code of Business Ethics. аа BCCI serves all companies, regardless of their status. Contribution of BCCI’s members to the Bulgarian economy, 2014 (%) national level=100

National export of good 72.09 100 and services Export by BCCI's members

Gross domestic product 48.95 100 in the country Gross domestic product of the BCCI's members 45.16 100 Persons employed with Persons employed with labor contract labor contract in the country at BCCI's members 020406080 100 Source: National Statistical Institute,Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry

22 Bulgaria in figures – 2015 edition Structures and services TRADE REGISTER AND MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORATE http://www.bcci.bg/trade-reg-services.html Main activities: 1. Trade Register Services аа Registration in the Unified voluntary trade register of the BCCI – over 53 000 companies and organizations and other legal subjects; аа Obligatory registration of commercial representative offices of foreign persons in Bulgaria; аа Maintenance and updating of the information on file subject to registration; аа Issuing of certificates and references in Bulgarian and foreign languages for the status and financial condition of the registered legal subjects; аа 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: аа Certificates of origin of goods; аа 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, Director Tel.: (+359 2) 987 88 84, 8117 476, Fax: (+359 2) 987 32 09 E-mail: [email protected]

Bulgaria in figures – 2015 edition 23 EUROPEAN INTEGRATION AND EUROPEAN PROJECTS DIRECTORATE 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 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, Director Tel.: (02) 988 34 82; 8117 508, Fax: (02) 987 32 09 E-mail: [email protected]

INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION AND INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS DIRECTORATE http://www.bcci.bg/business-delegations-en.html http://www.bcci.bg/seminars-en.html http://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, Director Tel.: (02) 987 25 38; 8117 489, Fax: (02) 987 32 09 E-mail: [email protected], [email protected] 24 Bulgaria in figures – 2015 edition ARBITARAION COURT AT BCCI http://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, President Tel.: (+359 2) 8117 434, Fax: (+359 2) 987 32 09 E-mail: [email protected]

GS1 BULGARIA COUNCIL AT THE BCCI http://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, CEO Tel.: (+359 2) 8117 604 E-mail: [email protected]

Bulgaria in figures – 2015 edition 25 BCCI – CENTRE FOR VOCATIONAL TRAINING, TRANSLATIONS, CONSULTATIONS AND COMPANY SERVICES EOOD http://www.bcci.bg/consultations-en.html Main activities: 1. Consultations on economic activity: аа Provision of business information; аа Drafting of companies’ profiles; аа Provision of services to companies in carrying out their commercial activity; аа Standardization and quality control systems; аа Personnel planning, development and management; аа Patents, trademarks and protection of intellectual property; аа Application and requirements of trade and customs regimes; аа Evaluation of assets and companies. 2. Consultations on legal issues: аа Registration of companies; аа Drafting of commercial and specific contracts; аа Disputes in connection with infringed contractual relationships. 3. Consultations on projects for financing: аа Drafting of project proposals for financing; аа Elaboration of business plans and projects; аа Preparation of tender and competition documentation; аа Provision of information on financial and insurance issues, franchising, and venture capital. 4. Consultations on marketing research: аа Internal and international markets; аа Elaboration of analyses and development strategies; аа Information on the status of particular sectors, branches or regions, commodity markets and prices. 5. Consultations on tax issues 6. Filling in/elaboration of commercial documents 7. Translation / interpretation services: аа Translation of corporate and private documents from/to more than 20 languages; аа Certification of documents before government and public offices and institutions; аа Legalization of documents at the Consular sections of foreign missions in the country. 8. Training: аа Organizing of seminars and training courses for expanding and improvement of personnel qualifications; аа Gaining skills and competences for professional development. 9. Fairs and Exhibitions: аа Organization of specialized exhibitions and fairs in Bulgaria; аа Organizing individually, collectively or formal participation of Bulgarian companies in International fairs and exhibitions abroad. For Contacts: Margarita Damyanova Tel.: (+359 2) 8117 477, Fax: (+359 2) 987 32 09 e-mail: [email protected]

26 Bulgaria in figures – 2015 edition INDUSTRIAL ZONES For more information and details of each zone, visit the following address: http://www.bcci.bg/zones/ INDUSTRIAL PARK – STRIMON, 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 INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Balgaravo DOBRICH BUSINESS ZONE, Dobrich INDUSTRIAL ZONE “NORTH”, Dobrich INDUSTRIAL ZONE “WEST”, Dobrich INDUSTRIAL ZONE, General Toshevo GABROVO INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Gabrovo DIMITROVGRAD INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Dimitrovgrad FREE ZONE - , Svilengrad SVILENGRAD INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Svilengrad INDUSTRIAL ZONE KARDZHALI - SOUTH, Kardzhali INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Letnitsa INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Troyan TECHNOLOGY PARK, Montana INDUSTRIAL PARK - PAZARDZHIK, 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, MARITSA INDUSTRIAL AND COMMERCIAL ZONE, Plovdiv

Bulgaria in figures – 2015 edition 27 NORTH INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Plovdiv PLOVDIV FREE ZONE, Plovdiv KALOYANOVO INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Kaloyanovo INDUSTRIAL AND COMMERCIAL ZONE KARADZHALOVO, Karadzhalovo INDUSTRIAL AND COMMERCIAL ZONE, Kuklen INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Stryama BUSINESS ZONE “PERISTAR” - RAZGRAD, Razgrad RUSE EAST INDUSTRIAL PARK, Ruse INDUSTRIAL PARK RUSE, Ruse IVANOVO INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Shtraklevo INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Kaspichan SHUMEN INDUSTRIAL PARK, Shumen DANUBE INDUSTRIAL PARK, Silistra TCHAVDAR PARK , Botevgrad INDUSTRIAL PARK SOFIA, Sofia INDUSTRIAL PARK SOFIA EAST, 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, FIRST INDUSTRIAL ZONE - AVREN, Avren INDUSTRIAL ZONE VETRINO, Vetrino INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Suvorovo VARNA WEST INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Varna INDUSTRIAL ZONE - SOUTH, , Strazhitsa INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Svishtov VRATZA INDUSTRIAL ZONE, Vratza

28 Bulgaria in figures – 2015 edition The building of Sofia Commercial and Industrial Chamber 2 Slavianska Str., Sofia built in 1914

The building of the BCCI 42 Parchevich Str., Sofia Opened 1995

New building of the BCCI 9 Iskar Str., Sofia