site.bta National Economic Council Resumes Work after Two-Year Hiatus

The National Economic Council (NEC) Tuesday met at the Economy and Industry Ministry, marking the resumption of activities after a two-year hiatus. Economy and Industry Minister Peter Dilov opened the meeting, stressing the Council's important role as an advisory body to the Council of Ministers, which contributes to the formation of economic policies, the Ministry said.

The resumption of regular meetings is a clear sign of NEC's commitment to creating a stable and predictable business environment. Together with representatives of institutions, employers' organizations and businesses, the Council will work towards effective solutions to the current economic challenges, said Dilov.

Employers' organizations praised the Economy Minister for the swift implementation of commitments made during his meeting with the Association of the Organizations of Bulgarian Employers at the beginning of his term. At that meeting, it was agreed that a concrete plan with priorities and deadlines would be prepared for NEC's agenda.

The participants heard a report on Bulgaria's progress in 25 thematic committees of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). "Joining the OECD is one of our key foreign policy priorities, and the government is strongly committed to this process," Dilov said. Employers' organizations expressed their support for Bulgaria's OECD membership.

Employers' organizations also proposed sustainable solutions addressing the high electricity prices affecting industries. The discussion included rules for a permanent compensation mechanism at both national and European levels, in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2024/1735 - Establishing a framework of measures for strengthening Europe's net-zero technology manufacturing ecosystem. Participants highlighted the need for enhanced support for the worst hit industrial sectors.

Dilov said: "We rely on constructive dialogue with all stakeholders and will continue to work on long-term policies that ensure the resilience and competitiveness of Bulgarian industry."

The meeting was attended by deputy ministers of electronic governance, of transport and communications, of labour and social policy, of foreign affairs, and of energy, along with representatives of major employers' organizations.