France ranks 6th in terms of Bulgarian exports, accounting for 3.3% of the country’s total export
The development of bilateral economic relations was discussed by the Minister of Economy and Industry, Peter Dilov, with H.E. Marie Dumoulin, Ambassador of France to Bulgaria. The meeting was also attended by Deputy Minister Doncho Barbalov.
Minister Dilov emphasised that Bulgaria attaches priority importance to its cooperation with France. “In addition to our political, cultural and historical ties, strong commercial relations also exist between the two countries,” he stated. According to him, economic relations have been dynamic and have shown consistent positive development in recent years.
During the meeting, it was noted that trade turnover between Bulgaria and France for the period January – July 2025 exceeded EUR 1.5 billion. France remains one of Bulgaria’s principal trading partners in Europe, ranking 6th in terms of exports and holding a 3.3% share of Bulgaria’s total export volume.
French companies are also among the leading investors in Bulgaria. Sectors that traditionally attract French investment include agriculture and food processing, automotive equipment, finance, electronics, information and communication technologies, trade, and others.
Both sides underlined that, despite the positive trajectory of bilateral economic relations, there remains significant potential for further deepening cooperation and for the development of joint projects.
Minister Dilov and the French Ambassador highlighted energy, defence, transport, and innovation as key sectors offering opportunities for enhanced bilateral collaboration.
Dilov noted that Bulgaria’s entry into the Eurozone on 1 January 2026, along with the country’s full membership in the Schengen Area, will greatly facilitate trade relations and expand cooperation between business representatives from both countries.
The two also discussed Bulgaria’s process of accession to the OECD, with Ambassador Dumoulin reaffirming France’s strong support.