Bulgaria experienced significant growth in its export sector during the first five months of 2026, as preliminary data shows exports reached €18.8 billion. This marks a 7.4% increase compared to the same timeframe in the previous year. Despite this positive trend in exports, the pace of import growth outstripped that of exports. Imports rose by 12.8% year-on-year, totaling €24.2 billion from January through May.
In May 2026 alone, Bulgarian exports demonstrated resilience, rising by 7.8% to €3.72 billion. However, the country’s imports surged even more significantly, with a 17.4% increase amounting to €4.68 billion. The robust import activity highlights a dynamic economic environment, albeit one that is currently skewed towards higher foreign goods acquisition.
The resultant trade deficit for Bulgaria in the first five months of 2026 stood at €5.4 billion, underlining the ongoing challenge of balancing trade activities. The deficit in May alone was recorded at €957.9 million, reflecting the sustained strength of import growth relative to exports.
These figures illuminate a period of economic activity where the demand for foreign products has outpaced the growth of exports. While the country is seeing substantial export growth, the rapid increase in imports has led to a widening trade deficit, presenting a mixed picture of economic health and challenges.