Boosting trade between Bulgaria and China, as well as expanding Bulgarian exports to the Chinese market, were the main topics of discussion during the 18th Session of the Bulgaria–China Intergovernmental Commission for Economic Cooperation, held in Sofia. The meeting was co-chaired by the Minister of Economy and Industry, Peter Dilov, and the Vice Minister of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China, Mr Ling Ji.
This eighteenth session took place after a five-year break, the last one having been held in 2020 before the crisis triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants included Deputy Minister of Economy and Industry Dontcho Barbalov, representatives of ministries and agencies, the National Company “Industrial Zones”, and a number of experts.
The session addressed key areas of cooperation between Bulgaria and China, including trade and investment, transport and communication connectivity, infrastructure, agriculture and food, environmental protection, energy, and tourism.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to balancing and diversifying mutual trade by increasing Bulgarian exports of agricultural and food products, essential oils, wines, and high-technology goods. The importance of attracting Chinese investment in high value-added sectors was underlined, including through the promotion of Bulgaria’s industrial zones.
In his address, Minister Dilov stressed that Bulgaria’s economy is supported by a stable macroeconomic policy aimed at creating a positive business environment, which attracts both domestic and foreign investment.
“We view the development of bilateral trade and economic relations in the context of Bulgaria’s full membership of the European Union and the Schengen Area,” Dilov highlighted.
He noted that Bulgaria’s accession to Schengen in 2024 had strengthened confidence in the national economy and confirmed the country’s role as a reliable partner. “Our forthcoming entry into the Eurozone in 2026 will bring even greater macroeconomic stability, lower transaction costs and a stronger integration effect for business, while progress towards OECD membership will provide access to best international practices, encourage investment and accelerate structural reforms,” he added.
Both sides expressed satisfaction with the agreements reached and underlined that the successful conduct of the session provides a solid basis for concrete results in the near future, which will deepen the economic partnership between Bulgaria and China.