More than 75,000 people in Bulgaria are employed in over 350 companies in the automotive sector
The outlook for Bulgaria’s automotive industry remains strong, and the sector stands ready to reinforce the country’s position as a reliable and innovative partner within the European automotive ecosystem. This was stated by the Deputy Minister of Economy and Industry, Dontcho Barbalov, at the opening of the business forum “Bulgaria – China: Cooperation in the Automotive Sector”. More than 50 Bulgarian and Chinese companies from the industry took part in the event.
In his address, Deputy Minister Barbalov highlighted the significant development of the automotive sector in Bulgaria. “Over 75,000 people are employed in the industry across more than 350 companies. Bulgaria is highly integrated into the European automotive ecosystem, with 80% of the sensors used in all European vehicles produced in our country,” he emphasised.
Barbalov also noted the growing interest in engineering education. Across 23 universities in Bulgaria, more than 20,000 students are enrolled in programmes relevant to the needs of the automotive industry.
The Deputy Minister of Economy further underlined the stability and resilience of the Bulgarian economy. “In the third quarter of 2025, GDP increased by 3.2% year-on-year and by 0.7% compared with the second quarter, according to preliminary data from the National Statistical Institute. This demonstrates a sound macroeconomic framework that provides a favourable environment for business and investment,” Barbalov said.
He also ephasised Bulgaria’s strategic geographical location and its potential to attract high value-added investment.
“Bulgarian subcontracting companies can, in turn, offer foreign investors a workforce that is demonstrably competitive on the European market – highly skilled and technologically proficient,” Barbalov added.
The forum was organised by the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI). Participants included Tsvetan Simeonov, President of BCCI; Dai Qingli, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Bulgaria; Lyubomir Stanislavov, Chief Executive Officer and Member of the Board of Directors of the Automotive Cluster Bulgaria; and Liu Wenji, Vice President of the China Automobile Dealers Association.