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.
Regional policies are needed to address imbalances in employment and economic activity levels in different regions of Bulgaria, taking into account the specificities of each region. This is the recommendation of the Council for Economic Analysis study..
The total average income per household member in the first quarter of 2024 is BGN 2,840 (EUR 1,452.07), which was an increase of 18.6%, year-on-year, the National Statistical Institute said. Wage income increased from BGN 1,284 (EUR 656.5) to BGN 1,597..
There are over one million inactive persons on the Bulgarian labour market. They don't study, don't work and are not registered with the labour offices. This "army" has huge untapped potential, National Employment Agency Director Smilen Valov said...
The direct losses for Bulgaria from the delayed full accession to the Schengen Area amount to EUR 424 million, caretaker Minister of Economy Petko..
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