Triple Cooperation Council debates Bulgaria's 2026 budget amid union and business protests

The Bulgarian Triple Cooperation Council met to review the draft 2026 state budget, health insurance and pension fund plans. The proposal targets a 5.7% GDP deficit, roughly €7.2 billion, with total spending of about €57 billion and an expected debt rise above €10 billion by year‑end.

Unions and employer groups voiced strong opposition. Employers criticize the increase of the maximum social‑insurance income to €2,300 and a 30% rise in vignette fees from 1 August. Unions demand that civil‑service workers share part of their insurance contributions and seek additional labour rights, while also protesting higher tobacco excise and vignette costs. Minister of Finance Galab Donov defended the plan, calling it realistic despite criticism that lower‑paid workers would bear a heavier tax burden.

Protests were organised outside the Ministry of Finance, and the council is expected to forward the budget to the Council of Ministers for approval before it is submitted to parliament.