Bulgaria Social Minister announces progress on new minimum wage mechanism

Bulgarian Social Minister Natalia Efremova announced that the state, trade unions, and employers have reached a significant convergence regarding a new mechanism for determining the minimum wage. An agreement is expected to be signed by the end of this month at the latest.

The new model, intended for implementation starting in 2027, will be based on consensus between social partners rather than previous principles. Efremova declined to confirm specific figures or upper limits until final data from the National Statistical Institute is available.

The timeline for the new mechanism includes receiving official statistical data by the end of April, with negotiations to be finalized by May 15. This process aims to ensure predictability for businesses and protection for workers through a modernized procedure.