Bulgaria Prepares Measures to Cushion Impact of Rising Fuel Prices

Bulgaria's government is preparing a package of measures to limit the impact of rising fuel prices on transport and the most vulnerable citizens. Prime Minister Rumen Radev said this during a joint briefing with his Czech counterpart, Andrej Babiš, on Wednesday.

According to Radev, instability in the Middle East is having a negative impact on the Bulgarian economy, as higher energy prices are also driving up consumer prices. “Fuel prices in Bulgaria are among the lowest in Europe. But that is by no means reassuring, because living standards in Bulgaria are also among the lowest in Europe,” Radev said.

The Prime Minister announced that specific measures are being developed to support public transport, emergency medical services and school transport. Support is also planned for Bulgarian citizens who are most vulnerable to rising prices.

“These measures will be announced very soon. There is already such a package,” Radev said.

At the same time, Bulgaria is working to expand the capacity for transporting energy resources by land from the Persian Gulf countries to Europe. According to the Prime Minister, the risks surrounding the Strait of Hormuz remain and could disrupt maritime deliveries. Bulgaria is holding talks with the European Commission and neighbouring countries on the issue, with Radev expressing hope that these efforts will produce results in the medium term.