Job market
The economy of Bulgaria is an open market economy with a developed private sector and a limited number of state enterprises. Bulgaria has been a member of the World Trade Organization since 1 December 1996. Since 1 January 2007, Bulgaria has also been a member of the EU.
The Bulgarian economy is characterized by economic, political and financial stability. The country has a strategic geographic location, liberal access to markets consisting of more than 560 million consumers, and the lowest corporate tax in EU – 10%. Investments in municipalities with high levels of unemployment enjoy tax-free status. There are also increased amortization norms (of 50%) for investments in new machinery, manufacturing equipment and other apparatus, computers, peripheral computing devices, and software. The country is justly famous for its yoghurt and other dairy products, for its rose oil products, and for its wines and brandies. One of Bulgaria’s preeminent industries is tourism.
Key growth sectors include education, healthcare, outsourcing, and new fields like cybersecurity and financial services.
Labour market participation has improved, bringing Bulgaria closer to OECD averages in employment and participation.
The manufacturing and services sectors are impacted by global pressures (supply-chains, automation) which require adaptation of workforce skills.
For job-seekers, this means opportunities in growth sectors, but also the need for flexible skills, language ability, willingness to relocate or up-skill.
You can also find some useful information on job market in Bulgaria by regions on the EURES Portal.