
Bulgaria’s GDP Growth Eases to 2.9% as Exports Weaken
Bulgaria’s economy grew by 2.9% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2025, down from previous periods, according to the Bulgarian National Bank’s latest Economic Review, CE Report quotes BTA
Growth was mainly driven by strong domestic demand and a 9% rise in private consumption, supported by higher employment and household incomes. However, net exports dragged on growth, as global trade uncertainties—especially from shifts in U.S. trade policy—continued to weigh on Bulgaria’s export performance.
Employee compensation rose 10.7% in nominal terms due to labor shortages and higher public wages. Household credit grew by 20.7% in May, with housing loans remaining the primary contributor.