Caretaker Economy and Industry Minister Irina Shtonova addressed the National Council of the Bulgarian Association of Industrial Capital, outlining the measures taken by the caretaker government to support businesses amid global uncertainty. The Economy Ministry reported on Friday that the ministry worked closely with employers to identify effective support strategies. Shtonova detailed initial challenges, noting that the first discussion focused on adjusting the calculation method for monthly business compensation due to elevated electricity costs.
She stated that the initial six-month calculation proved ineffective, leading to a swift adjustment to a monthly basis. Furthermore, she highlighted the significance of the European Commission’s approval for temporary state aid, allocating EUR 334 million over three years to maintain the economic viability of energy-intensive companies. Addressing the impact of the Middle East conflict, the ministry implemented several measures designed to mitigate consequences while avoiding inflationary pressures.
These actions include providing liquidity support for transportation companies and agricultural producers. The government has secured guarantees for their lease agreements, allowing payment deferrals until year-end. Additionally, the increase in toll fees, which affects all economic sectors, has been postponed.
Concluding her remarks, Shtonova emphasized that continuous dialogue between the ministry and employers is crucial for sound decision-making, stating this collaborative effort remains a top priority for her tenure.
Topics: #economy #ministry #employers
