site.btaUPDATED French-Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Sets Out to Increase French Investments in Bulgaria

Interviewed by BTA, French-Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) President Stephane Delahaye said economic ties between the two countries have a strong basis. Many traditional Bulgarian industries have a potential for the development of economic relations between Bulgaria and France. He singled out the centuries-old traditions in agriculture and livestock breeding, food production, including cheese and yoghurt, winemaking, as well as economic activity in sea and mountain areas and tourism.

In 2024, the Chamber has set itself ambitious goals to boost French investments in Bulgaria and help established companies to expand their presence. Delahaye said Bulgaria's industrial potential would be presented to business associations which have shown an interest in visiting this country. The critical factors for the feasibility of these goals are: the availability of a quality, loyal workforce, a high level of education and health infrastructure throughout the country, the development of transport and rail infrastructure, and the provision of an excellent living environment to match economic stability.

Bulgaria's strengths in attracting and retaining foreign investors are its strategic location as a gateway to the EU market, its competitive pricing environment, its well-educated workforce and the availability of domestic and regional energy resources. In addition, infrastructure development and advances in technology further enhance the country's attractiveness, the FBCCI President said.

He suggested that simplifying administrative processes and stabilizing the country's economic policy would boost its positive image.

Innovation Awards competition

On Thursday, the French-Bulgarian Chamber will launch the fifth Innovation Awards competition. The novelty this year is that it is open to individuals who can enter an innovative concept. The award-winning companies since 2018 have shown an increased commitment to innovation for the benefit of society through innovative products or services.

Companies and individuals which have implemented an innovative project can apply until March 4 at https://www.ccifbinnovationawards.org/. The participants get media visibility and promote their project. They get an opportunity to win an annual membership in the FBCCI. The winner in the Innovative Idea category can win access to the Chamber's Business Accelerator (to the amount of BGN 3,000) so as to start implementing the idea as a business project through access to a business incubator, networking, mentoring, market research and marketing activities.

The awards ceremony will take place on April 4.