site.bta6th European Mining Business Forum Opens in Sofia

Attending the sixth edition of the European Mining Business Forum (EMBF) in Sofia on Wednesday, caretaker Deputy Energy Minister Krassimir Nenov said that per capita mineral extraction in Bulgaria has been growing over the past 10 years. Labour productivity is 2.5 times higher than the average for the industrial sector, which is an example that this sector is developing steadily, providing a basis for growth for the entire economy in Bulgaria, he underscored.

Nenov noted that the Energy Ministry monitors the development of the mineral sector and has always supported it with legislative initiatives, expertise and practical guidance for the optimal use of natural resources in order to find an effective balance between energy and environmental protection.

The Deputy Minister said that the area of mineral deposits by sub-sector in 2023 proves the importance of the mining sector in Bulgaria. In his words, Bulgaria has: 8,500 hectares of metallic mineral mines; 6,200 hectares of nonmetallic mineral mines; 15,300 hectares of oil and natural gas fields; 72,800 hectares of solid fuel mines; 10,200 hectares of construction material mines; 1,000 hectares of rock-facing material mines.

Nenov explained that ongoing mineral exploration activities are evidence of natural resource needs. In addition to natural resources, the industry relies on the latest technology and especially the skills of geologists and mining professionals, he emphasized.

In a written address to the forum, President Rumen Radev said that Bulgaria has a long and sustainable tradition in mining, which accounts for a significant share of the country's gross domestic product and provides thousands of jobs. This is why its future development is of utmost importance for the country's economic life, the head of State stressed, adding that the mining industry has also proved over the years to be a stabilising factor for the national energy system, guaranteeing secure and affordable electricity prices.

According to Radev, in recent years the sector has faced a number of difficulties driven by the need to achieve higher environmental commitment and a lower carbon footprint in a short period of time. "As a society, we owe it to our children and future generations to take a responsible approach to protecting the environment and make the green transition with care for those employed in the mining industry," the President's statement further reads. He added that finding a balance and the right approach to achieving Europe's carbon neutrality targets requires serious expert debate.