Roumen Radev, newly appointed as Bulgaria’s Prime Minister, announced on May 8 that his administration plans to tackle rising prices without imposing price ceilings. Instead, the government aims to leverage market economy tools to reduce prices and streamline retail chains. Addressing reporters following the parliamentary vote that confirmed his government, Radev underscored that curbing inflation will be a key priority. He mentioned that legislative amendments are underway to clarify pricing mechanisms and counter unfair competition, with a focus on imposing stricter penalties and enhancing control measures against those undermining fair market practices.
One of Radev’s primary concerns is protecting Bulgarian producers from coercive practices that force them to sell at nearly breakeven levels, impacting the dairy and livestock sectors adversely. He advocates for greater collaboration among local producers to facilitate easier market access. During the first Cabinet meeting held later that day, Radev outlined several urgent goals, including judicial reform, anti-corruption efforts, and maintaining the funds allocated under the Recovery and Resilience Plan. He also highlighted priorities in healthcare, education, transport infrastructure, and improving the overall business climate in Bulgaria.
Radev tasked ministers with conducting thorough analyses within their departments, focusing on financial conditions, problematic contracts, administrative inefficiencies, and public procurement practices. The findings will inform the upcoming state Budget, ensuring it reflects the actual conditions within ministries. He stressed the importance of uncovering hidden deficits and unpaid invoices to enable the Finance Minister to structure a transparent budget. Declaring a commitment to dismantle oligarchic structures, Radev emphasized the need for a robust government to drive the fight against corruption, including judicial reforms and appointing an independent Prosecutor General.
The Prime Minister also highlighted initiatives aimed at enhancing Bulgaria’s business environment to attract more investment and digitalization while reducing regulatory burdens. He urged for accelerated modernization of the military and prioritized tackling crime and road safety issues. On foreign policy, Radev called for more constructive engagement to safeguard Bulgarian interests within international alliances. He also emphasized education reforms to improve young people’s functional literacy, construction of a National Children’s Hospital, and eliminating corruption in the healthcare system.
Radev underscored the importance of securing social payments for vulnerable groups, enhancing transport infrastructure through public-private partnerships, and ensuring energy security and affordability. He pledged to boost food security by supporting local production and addressing environmental concerns. Finally, the Prime Minister highlighted the development of Bulgarian culture, heritage, tourism, and sports, particularly focusing on increasing children’s participation in sports activities.