Bulgarian pepper production declines 80% amid rising imports

Pepper production in Bulgaria has declined by 80% over the last two decades, according to data from the Ministry of Agriculture. This decline is driven by competition from imports, with over 60% of pepper imports originating from Turkey. Consequently, many local producers are abandoning traditional varieties.

In the village of Kurtovo Konare, historically famous for the ‘Kurtovo Kapia’ pepper used in traditional lyutenitsa, the tradition is nearing extinction. Sevdа Vasileva is reported to be the only remaining producer of red peppers in the village. She notes that while pepper cultivation was once a common occupation for many families, labor-intensive production, low purchase prices, and high import volumes have forced others to quit.

Climate change, including prolonged heatwaves and storms, further threatens harvests. Despite these challenges, Vasileva continues to cultivate three decares of land to preserve the Bulgarian pepper tradition. Currently, approximately 80% of the peppers on the market are either imported or hybrid varieties.