Economic freedom in Bulgaria continues to decrease, according to the latest published research of the Institute for Market Economics, conducted jointly with the Fraser Institute, based in Canada.

In the Economic Freedom of the World: 2023 Annual Report, Bulgaria holds 43rd place among 165 countries and territories. A year ago, it was in 23rd place due to its more liberal regime during the Covid pandemic. The ranking takes into account the degree of economic freedom, the protection of property rights, the judicial system, government regulations, inflation, as well as the difficulties faced by businesses and citizens.

The country shows its weakest performance in the field of law and courts. At the same time a flat tax, low duties and taxes, freedom of movement, money and people, as well as a stable currency are its strengths, the ranking points out.