NSI President Anticipates Inflation Growth in Bulgaria Amid Rising Bread and Electricity Prices

National Statistical Institute (NSI) President Assoc. Prof. Atanas Atanasov expects inflation in Bulgaria to rise due to increased bread and electricity prices, he told BTA. While the NSI does not issue forecasts, Atanasov noted that higher VAT on bread and restaurant services is already driving price hikes. "Bread and related products carry significant weight in the consumer basket, and electricity price changes will inevitably impact inflation," he explained, CE Report quotes BTA

In 2025, the NSI will update its inflation basket, adding four new goods and services while removing eight, including PCR tests for COVID-19, replaced by combination antigen and influenza tests. New entries include tumble dryers and school lunch coupons.

Atanasov highlighted a forthcoming change in the EU's inflation classification (COICOP) in 2026, designed to better reflect modern consumption patterns. The update will improve the relevance of statistical data for economic analysis and policymaking.

Bulgaria's potential Schengen accession may complicate certain surveys, such as tracking international tourism at border crossings. However, the NSI plans to adopt data collection methods used in other Schengen countries, including mobile phone movement data, as permitted under EU regulations. Cooperation with Greece will also enhance reporting on Bulgarian tourists.

Looking ahead, the NSI will focus on immigration data under the EU Directive on highly qualified employment, household consumption and finances, fast-growing enterprises, and gender equality in governance. A new classification of economic activities takes effect in 2025, alongside plans for a revised regionalization of the country, pending public consultation, Atanasov added.