Foreign investment increases by 47% in the first five months of the year, reaching EUR 1.4 billion, Deputy Minister Lazarova announces
“We value investors who remain for the long term and expand their production capacities. Since the beginning of the year, there has been a growing trend in investor interest in Bulgaria, supported by the decision for our accession to the eurozone as of 1 January 2026. Foreign direct investment has already reached EUR 1.4 billion for the first five months of 2025, which represents an increase of nearly 47% year-on-year,” stated Ms Nevena Lazarova, Deputy Minister of Economy and Industry, during the official ceremony at which automotive parts manufacturer Behr-Hella Thermocontrol (BHTC) announced the second expansion of its production facility in Sofia-Bozhurishte Industrial Park. The investment made for this latest expansion amounts to EUR 25 million and will create more than 100 new jobs.
Deputy Minister Lazarova emphasised that with this investment, the company reaffirms its position as a key partner in the country’s industrial development and as an example of sustainable and high-tech growth. “This new production capacity is yet another confirmation that our country has the potential to become a leader in the industries of the future,” she added.
According to her, the automotive sector will be a key component of the new National Industrial Strategy, which is currently being developed by the Ministry of Economy and Industry, with a focus on new technologies, the green transition, and high added value. Ms Lazarova assured that the strategy will be aligned with the European objectives for achieving sustainable industrialisation and innovation.
“We are proud of what we have built here in Bulgaria. Today’s inauguration is not only a significant step forward for our facility, but also a clear commitment to the future – to innovation, sustainability, and to our dedicated team,” said Mr Martin Neiland, Managing Director of BHTC Bulgaria EOOD.
The official opening ceremony was held in the presence of representatives from government, business, and industry, highlighting the strategic importance of the Bozhurishte plant within BHTC and AUO’s international production network.
BHTC Bulgaria is part of the globally active AUO Group, a leader in technological innovation in display systems and integrated solutions. With its cutting-edge HMI (Human-Machine Interface) systems and pioneering use of next-generation Micro LED technology in automotive displays, AUO is actively shaping the future of mobility by enhancing in-vehicle safety and comfort.
BHTC began its operations in Bulgaria in 2013 with the establishment of a production plant and development centre for the manufacture of control panels for automotive climate control systems. The company currently employs over 650 people in Bulgaria. Globally, BHTC is among the leading companies in automotive climate control and management. Its clients include many of the world’s leading automotive brands, including Audi, Porsche, BMW, Daimler, MAN, Skoda, Volkswagen, and Volvo.