Caretaker Economy and Industry Minister Irina Shtonova addressed the National Council of the Bulgarian Association of Industrial Capital, detailing the measures taken by the government to support businesses amid global economic uncertainty. The Economy Ministry reported that during this period, the ministry collaborated closely with employers to identify and implement effective support mechanisms for the industry. Shtonova highlighted initial challenges, noting that the initial calculation method for monthly business compensation due to high electricity prices, based on six-month periods, proved ineffective.
She stated that the ministry swiftly implemented a change, adjusting the compensation calculation to a monthly basis. Furthermore, she emphasized the significance of the European Commission’s approval for temporary state aid, allocating EUR 334 million over three years to sustain energy-intensive enterprises. To mitigate the effects of the Middle East conflict, the government has enacted several targeted measures designed to support specific sectors without generating inflationary pressure.
These actions include providing liquidity guarantees for transportation companies and agricultural producers, allowing them to defer lease payments until the end of the year. Additionally, the increase in toll fees affecting all economic sectors has been postponed. The minister stressed that continuous dialogue between the ministry and employers is fundamental to sound decision-making within the national economy.
She concluded that maintaining this collaborative partnership remains a top priority for the ministry.
Topics: #economy #ministry #employers
