site.btaTourism Minister Meets Industry Representatives to Talk Promotion of Inbound Tourism, Better Working Conditions

Tourism Minister Miroslav Borshosh Tuesday met with representatives of the Association of Incoming Agencies and the Bulgarian Hotel Association to discuss measures aimed at promoting inbound tourism and improving working conditions in Bulgaria’s tourism sector, the Ministry said. The discussions focused on some of the sector’s main challenges, including the need for more flexible and efficient visa procedures for third-country workers, better coordination with the Migration Directorate and increased staffing, especially in areas with high tourist activity such as Burgas.

Minister Borshosh told the associations’ representatives that the visa issue is being actively worked on and new positions are expected to be opened at Bulgarian diplomatic missions where possible. "Reviving inbound tourism and creating a sustainable, competitive destination requires connectivity, security and active dialogue with businesses. The Ministry is ready to cooperate, accelerate progress and elevate your efforts, both in promoting key markets and in addressing administrative and infrastructure-related challenges," Borshosh added.

The representatives of the Association of Incoming Agencies and the Bulgarian Hotel Association noted that while inbound tourism has not been a major focus in the last five years, they see potential for joint work. They also spoke of the security of tourists and the state of the road infrastructure in the peak travel season.