Address by the President of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Dear members, partners and friends,

Traditionally, on the eve of the New Year, the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry looks back at its achievements and shares plans and ideas for the future. We are relieved to see the end of this year’s parliamentary and presidential elections, which have further strained the economic life in the country. We expect Bulgaria to have a more modern government that is responsive to the problems of the business community, and the real transformation of the government processes for the benefit of society to begin.

True to its constructiveness, BCCI extends a credit of confidence for the changes in the country and is optimistic about the energy of the new generation of politicians. Partnerships are important, but most importantly we must never forget to defend the interests of Bulgaria and its citizens first and then look at other interests and proposals. We expect that with patience, ambition, perseverance and wisdom, the politicians will find the right way to turn Bulgaria into a modern state.

The bitter experience of the results of recent years’ governance and this year’s failure to form a government, make us encourage the efforts to achieve an acceptable platform that will not deter the development of Bulgaria from the path of market economy.

At the same time, entrepreneurs have requirements for reforms and a favourable business environment.

One of the key events of 2021 was the recognition of BCCI once again as a representative employers’ organization at national level. Again, we will be a constructive partner and with specific, well-grounded opinions, including by researching the positions of Bulgarian business, will participate in the discussion of important laws in the economic and social sphere.

Providing assistance to companies by constantly improving and expanding the range of services we offer will remain the Chamber’s primary task. We are developing an updated electronic system for certification of foreign trade documents, which with its new functionalities will further facilitate the export activities of companies.

Our next priority is the digitalization of the economy, because Bulgaria is on the penultimate place among the 27 EU member-states in the Digital Economy and Society Index (DESI) in 2021. We will double our efforts to promote the use of new technologies by companies. That is why, in order to achieve the ambitious goals set for next year we have amended and supplemented the Statutes of the Innovation, Digitalization and New Technologies Council at BCCI.

We are preparing for the moment when the restrictions will be gradually lifted and we will have to work on a wider horizon with entrepreneurs for the benefit of the Bulgarian economy.

It is clear that we will not get out of the situation without social tension and turmoil. That is why, we have set up a Collective Bargaining and Other Industrial Relations Consulting Bureau. It will assist branch organizations and companies in resolving social conflicts and during negotiations for conclusion of collective employment agreements by providing expert opinion and up-to-date information based on BCCI’s international experience in defense of employers, which it has gained in the last 50 years.

Providing businesses with information about opportunities for transition to a circular economy, improving resource efficiency, extending product life and reducing waste, is also in the focus of the work of the Chamber and the “Circular Economy – Green Alternative for Bulgaria” Council established this year.

We will continue to implement current and develop new internationally funded projects in partnership with universities and foreign organizations. We pay significant attention to the working environment, the creation and development of future staff, including the training of unemployed persons, refugees and third-country nationals.

In its 126-year-long history, the Chamber has always encouraged praiseworthy entrepreneurs, has rejoiced in their achievements, and promoted good examples. On the eve of 2022, we traditionally remain close to our members, offering help and support so that we can all be stronger, wiser and more successful. And we do this from the heart!

Thank you for your trust!

Tsvetan Simeonov

BCCI President