No Tax Hikes or Social Benefit Cuts in 2025 Budget, Says Minister

Labour and Social Policy Minister Borislav Gutsanov assured on Sunday that Bulgaria's 2025 budget will not include tax increases or cuts to social benefits. Speaking in Burgas, he emphasized that all social funding would remain intact, following discussions with government officials, CE Report quotes BTA

Gutsanov stated that the budget would likely be ready within the next two weeks, with Finance Minister Lyudmila Petkova expected to make an official announcement soon. He also confirmed that the government’s management programme was being finalized and should be completed within ten days.

Addressing salary increases for defence, interior ministry employees, and teachers, Gutsanov supported the National Assembly’s decision, stressing the need to uphold it.

He also commented on the proposed bill by the Bulgarian Socialist Party (BSP) – United Left coalition, which seeks to cap markups on essential food products at 10%. He clarified that the bill aims to limit excessive markups rather than impose price controls.

On public administration cuts, Gutsanov agreed with Deputy Prime Minister Tomislav Donchev, citing a significant and unexplained increase in state administration over the past four years.

National Assembly Chair Nataliya Kiselova, also present at the briefing, highlighted efforts to restore normal parliamentary functions and engage in broader discussions on key national issues.

Both Gutsanov and Kiselova are members of the BSP – United Left coalition, which governs alongside GERB-UDF and There Is Such a People.