Companies in the road transport sector will be able to defer their leasing obligations until the end of 2026. This is envisaged under one of the new programmes of the Bulgarian Export Insurance Agency (BAEZ). The measure has been developed in recent days as part of the government’s efforts to support businesses and improve liquidity in the transport sector.
The programme provides for the introduction of guarantee mechanisms by BAEZ, which will enable the rescheduling and/or deferral of leasing instalments. Until the end of 2026, lessees will pay interest only, while the unpaid principal amounts will be rescheduled from the beginning of 2027 within the remaining repayment schedule. As a result, leasing costs will be significantly reduced – to approximately 5-10% of the amounts due.
This instrument is intended to ease the financial burden on the sector and provide greater flexibility in managing payments to leasing companies. Firms should contact their leasing providers to express their interest in using the measure, with the process taking place between the leasing company and BAEZ.
BAEZ has also developed additional measures to support the sector, aimed at facilitating access to bank financing for small and medium-sized enterprises. Through the issuance of insurance policies covering a substantial portion of companies’ working capital financing from banks, the requirement for own collateral is reduced by 50%. As a result, enterprises may obtain financing on more favourable terms, with collateral requirements reduced to approximately 15% of the loan amount instead of the standard 30%. The secured working capital may be used for the purchase of fuel, payment of wages, and other operating expenses.
A programme has also been developed for the insurance of working capital loans in support of the export activities of transport companies and air carriers. It is aimed at companies with contracts with foreign counterparties, with BAEZ insurance facilitating access to financing. The objective is to support the servicing of obligations and to maintain the operational activities of enterprises amid rising fuel prices.
The measures envisaged by the Ministry of Economy and Industry through BAEZ provide easier access to financing and improved liquidity for companies in the sector. The aim is to support the preservation of operational activities and employment, while the main risks associated with loan servicing in the sector are to be guaranteed by the state-owned company BAEZ.