site.btaDeputy Economy and Industry Minister at Plovdiv Technical Fair: Bulgarian Industry Contributes 20% to GDP

Deputy Minister of Economy and Industry David Sukalinski spoke of the Bulgarian industry's important role in the country's economy in his speech during the official opening ceremony of the 78th edition of the International Technical Fair in Plovdiv on Wednesday.

"Bulgarian industry plays an extremely important role in our economy, contributing nearly 20% to the gross domestic product. Last year, the added value created by the industry amounted to EUR 10.7 billion. Despite struggling with global economic crises, the number of active enterprises in the Bulgarian industry has remained relatively stable in recent years, at around 30,000. The government's priority goals for industrial development focus on reducing the carbon footprint, increasing production digitalisation, improving resource and energy efficiency, and introducing circular manufacturing models," Sukalinski said.

This year's edition of the Technical Fair is dedicated to sectors of the industry that are becoming increasingly important for the economy, namely digital technologies, construction, the aviation industry, mechanical engineering, and industries related to the development of the circular economy and eco-production. In his remarks, the Deputy Minister noted that these sectors have significant potential for creating added value and new jobs, stimulating innovation, and promoting exports and investments.

The Director of the Plovdiv International Fair, Ivan Sokolov, also made opening remarks.

"In complex and dynamic economic conditions, we strive to be useful to the industry and create opportunities for its development. The International Technical Fair is an initiative that supports economic entities and their operations. This edition aims to share ideas and solutions, encourage investor partnerships, and promote business innovations. Mechanical engineering, energy efficiency, technological production, electric vehicles, and drones are expected to have strong exhibitions," Sokolov said.

This year’s trade fair will feature manufacturers and representatives from 25 countries, showcasing innovations in ecological construction, mechanical engineering, energy, digital technologies, heavy machinery, and more. An international competition for innovative products will take place, with winners announced on September 26 at the Plovdiv Congress Centre.

The 78th edition highlights the ingenuity of Bulgarian companies, presenting seismic-proof products, advanced digital management technologies, and cutting-edge machinery. The event emphasizes Bulgaria’s growing role in global innovation.