Bulgaria proposes minimum wage increases through 2029

The Bulgarian Ministry of Finance has released budget preparation instructions outlining minimum wage projections for the coming years. According to the proposals, the monthly minimum wage is projected to reach 660 Euro in 2027, representing a 6.5 percent increase from current levels. Further projections suggest increases to 680 Euro in 2028 and 710 Euro in 2029.

These economic policies are aligned with Bulgaria’s vision for Eurozone integration and the goal of raising income standards to European Union levels. Additionally, the maximum insurance income is expected to rise to 2,400 Euro in 2027, 2,500 Euro in 2028, and 2,600 Euro in 2029.

The proposed figures have sparked debate among social partners. While some business representatives view the 660 Euro figure as a realistic compromise, labor unions have expressed dissatisfaction. Unions argue that the amount fails to protect workers' purchasing power against inflation and falls below what would have been achieved under the previous calculation formula, which would have yielded approximately 690 Euro.