The joint research laboratory of LB Bulgaricum and the Japanese corporation is expected to open in Sofia in mid-2026
A Joint Research Laboratory of LB Bulgaricum and the Japanese corporation Meiji is expected to open in Sofia in mid-2026. Its primary objective will be to study the benefits and scientifically substantiate the qualities of traditional Bulgarian yoghurt.
This was announced during a meeting between the Minister of Economy and Industry, Peter Dilov, and Mr Hideki Morita, Executive Director for International Relations at Meiji, who headed a delegation from the Japanese corporation. The meeting was also attended by Nevena Lazarova, Deputy Minister of Economy and Industry, and Nikolay Stoynev, Executive Director of LB Bulgaricum EAD.
“The new laboratory will make a significant contribution to the relationship between LB Bulgaricum and Meiji. Our partnership has a successful future ahead for both sides,” Minister Dilov emphasised. He highlighted Meiji’s contribution to strengthening the presence of Bulgarian yoghurt on Asian markets and added that investment in joint research and development activities is of particular importance, as it creates high added value and opens up new opportunities.
The discussion also focused on opportunities to expand market presence in key Asian markets in South-East Asia, as well as on the introduction of new products.
The Minister of Economy and Industry welcomed the opportunity for cooperation to be expanded into new product lines. “Expanding the partnership with Meiji into new technological and production areas is a natural step that will strengthen our positions on international markets,” Peter Dilov stated.
He described the partnership between the state-owned company under the Ministry of Economy and Industry and Meiji as an example of a successful synergy between Japanese precision and Bulgarian tradition. “This cooperation not only leads to economic success, but also builds deep cultural and professional ties, which we highly value,” Dilov added.
For his part, Mr Morita emphasised that the establishment of the joint research centre in Bulgaria is of key importance for Meiji. “The partnership relations will become more stable and will continue to develop further,” he added.
According to him, sales have increased in markets such as Thailand and Viet Nam, and the Japanese corporation is also set to introduce new products, including ayran, to Asian markets.