Italy is Bulgaria’s third-largest foreign trade partner.
Possibilities to intensify trade and economic cooperation were discussed by Minister of Economy and Industry Peter Dilov with H.E. Giuseppina Zarra, Ambassador of Italy to Bulgaria. Also participating in the meeting were Roberto Santorelli, Chairman of Confindustria Bulgaria (the Association of Italian Entrepreneurs in Bulgaria), as well as Deputy Minister of Economy and Industry Nevena Lazarova and the Head of the Minister’s Political Cabinet, Tanya Atanasova.
It was noted that Italy is among Bulgaria’s leading foreign trade partners, ranking 3rd in Bulgarian exports and 4th in total trade, according to data from the first ten months of 2024.
“Italy is one of our country’s traditional partners; we attach great importance to developing bilateral relations and will continue to encourage economic cooperation,” Minister Dilov said.
During the talks, Minister Dilov emphasized that Bulgaria aims to attract Italian investment in high-tech manufacturing and high value-added services. He stated that, according to the Bulgarian National Bank, direct investment from Italy in Bulgaria amounts to EUR 3.3 billion.
The Minister of Economy and the Italian Ambassador discussed deepening cooperation in strategic sectors such as manufacturing, transport, energy, digital technologies, and support for small and medium enterprises.
Minister Dilov stressed that one of his main priorities is improving the business climate in Bulgaria and reducing administrative burdens.
Ambassador Zarra mentioned that Bulgaria is a key economic partner for Italy and noted the significant Italian investments in Bulgaria’s manufacturing sector. They also discussed Bulgaria’s progress toward joining the OECD and the eurozone.
Minister Dilov and Roberto Santorelli, Chair of Confindustria, identified possibilities for organizing bilateral initiatives to help companies from both countries form partnerships.