A report adopted on April 30 by the European Commission (EC) concludes that Bulgaria’s introduction of the euro was smooth and efficient, the EC said.
On January 1 2026, Bulgaria became the 21st member of the euro area.
The report concludes that practical preparations for the changeover went according to plan, and that the public information campaign co-financed by the Commission provided timely, targeted and concise information to citizens.
The one-month period for dual circulation of leva and euro cash went smoothly. On 1 January, 99% of all automated teller machines (ATMs) in the country were distributing euro banknotes
According to Eurobarometer, 78 per cent of people in Bulgaria felt well-informed about the introduction of the euro and 62 per cent found the process to be smooth and efficient. The one-month period of dual circulation of Bulgarian lev and euro cash in January took place in an orderly manner.
As in previous changeovers, there was public concern about the possible impact of the changeover on prices.
The report considers that the Bulgarian authorities took all necessary steps to prevent abusive practices, and that the impact of unwarranted price increases on overall inflation has been relatively small and broadly in line with what was observed in previous changeovers.
The report formulates, among others, recommendations for future changeovers on how to intensify price monitoring and how to build on Bulgaria’s experience regarding communication needs.