Within the framework of the “Days of Bulgaria” in Kecskemét, Hungary, a Bulgarian-Hungarian Business Forum was held, organized by the Bulgarian Commercial and Economic Office in Hungary, the Embassy of Bulgaria in Budapest, and local partners.
The event brought together distinguished representatives from business, government, and academia in both countries to exchange views on the future of bilateral relations and identify new opportunities for partnership and investment.
During the Bulgarian-Hungarian Economic Forum and the “Days of Bulgaria” in Kecskemét, participants explored potential partnerships and investment opportunities in key sectors such as technology, energy, tourism, and industrial manufacturing. Bulgaria was presented as a strategic bridge between Europe and Asia, offering a competitive tax environment, a highly skilled workforce, and a stable business climate. More than 400 Hungarian companies are already operating in Bulgaria, demonstrating the strong economic ties between the two nations and the potential for even closer cooperation.
"Schengen, the Eurozone, the connectivity, the energy security, and the stable business environment clearly show why Bulgaria is the right choice for the Hungarian companies which seek new markets and partnerships," stated Doncho Barbalov, Bulgaria’s Vice Minister of Economy and Industry, during the forum. He emphasized that Hungary is among Bulgaria’s key trade and investment partners. In 2024, the bilateral trade grew by over 4%, highlighting the resilience and growth potential of the economic partnership between the two countries.
Vice Minister Barbalov underlined Bulgaria’s strategic role in Southeastern Europe, pointing out that full Schengen membership facilitates the movement of goods and people, reduces logistics costs, and provides businesses with competitive advantages. “The adoption of the euro will make payments easier and more secure, reduce transaction costs, and provide a predictable macroeconomic environment for investors,” he further noted.
The President of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI), Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov, welcomed the participants—both in person in Kecskemét and online—and drew attention to Bulgaria’s low tax rates, which continue to attract a considerable number of Hungarian companies. He noted that the joint efforts of BCCI, the bilateral chamber, and the diplomatic missions of both countries are producing strong results.
Mr. Simeonov encouraged Hungarian partners to take advantage of the investment incentives offered by the Bulgarian state, including a 0% corporate tax in municipalities with unemployment rates higher than the national average.
The forum in Kecskemét demonstrated that Bulgaria continues to attract international business interest with its favorable tax policies, strong technological potential, and strategic geographic location. The event fostered new contacts, partnerships, and ideas to deepen the economic cooperation between Bulgaria and Hungary.