Business statistics

In the third quarter of 2022, 1 748.8 thousand Bulgarian residents made tourist trips. The majority - 78.5% of them travelled only within the country, 16.3% - only abroad and 5.2% - both within the country and abroad. Compared to the same quarter of 2021, the total number of the travelled persons aged 15 and over increased by 31.7%.

According to the preliminary data of the National Statistical Institute, at the end of September 2022, the number of employees under labour contract decreased by 1.4% as compared to the end of June 2022 and reached 2.28 million.

In the third quarter of 2022, in comparison with the second quarter of 2022, the average monthly wages and salaries increased by 0.8% and reached 1 743 BGN.

Тhe exports of goods from Bulgaria to the EU increased by 44.6% compared to the same period of 2021 and amounted to 41 678.4 million BGN, while the imports of goods from the EU grew by 33.3% and reached 38 688.2 million BGN.

The most notable growth in the exports of goods to the EU compared to the same period of 2021 was recorded in sections ‘Mineral fuel, lubricants and related materials’ (295.2%) and ‘Animal and vegetable oils, fats and waxes’ (168.6%). A fall was reported in the section ‘Beverages and...

The exports of goods from Bulgaria to third countries increased by 32.7% compared to the same period of 2021 and amounted to 22 812.5 million BGN, while the imports of goods from third countries grew by 66.0% and added up to 36 109.4 million BGN.

Тhe most notable growth in the exports of goods to third countries compared to the same period of 2021 was recorded in the sections ‘Mineral fuel, lubricants and related materials’ (194.3%) and ‘Animal and vegetable oils, fats and waxes’ (116.0%). A fall was reported in the sect...

In September 2022, 3 124 accommodation establishments - hotels, motels, camping sites, mountain chalets and other establishments for short-term accommodation with more than 10 bed-places, functioned in the country with 134.2 thousand rooms and 303.2 thousand bed-places in them. In comparison with September 2021, the total number of accommodation establishments (functioned during the period) increased by 19.6% and the bed-places in them - by 18.6%.

The total number of nights spent in all accommodation establishments in September 2022 was 2 522.5 thousand, or by 24.6%...

Тhe index of production in section ‘Construction’ decreased by 0.2% in September 2022 compared to the previous month. A decrease was observed in the production of building construction - by 0.5%, while the production of civil engineering rose by 0.2%.

As compared to September 2021, the index of production in construction decreased by 1.3%. A decrease was registered both in building construction by 1.7% and in civil engineering - by 0.8%.

In September 2022, the turnover in ‘Retail trade, except motor vehicles and motorcycles’ at constant prices increased by 0.3% compared to the previous month. The data are preliminary and seasonally adjusted.

An increase in turnover was reported in ‘Retail sale of automotive fuel in specialised stores’ by 0.8%, in ‘Retail sale of food, beverages and tobacco’ by 0.5% and in ‘Retail sale of non-food products (except fuel)’ by 0.3%.

The calendar adjusted turnover increased by 2.1% in September 2022 as compared to the same month of 2021.

An increase was seen in ‘Ret...

The Industrial Production Index decreased by 1.7% in September 2022 compared to August 2022. The data are preliminary and seasonally adjusted.

Compared to the previous month, a decrease was reported in the electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply - by 10.4%, while an increase was seen in the mining and quarrying industry - by 2.8% and in the manufacturing - by 1.4%.

In September 2022, the calendar adjusted Industrial Production Index rose by 11.0% in comparison with the same month of 2021.

A growth compared to September 2021 was registered in the man...

In the third quarter of 2022, the municipal authorities issued building permits for the construction of 2 159 residential buildings with 14 708 dwellings, 14 administrative buildings/offices and 1 213 other buildings.

As compared to the third quarter of 2021, the issued building permits for new residential buildings increased by 17.0%, for administrative buildings - by 55.6%, and for other buildings - by 2.5%.

The construction of 1 559 residential buildings with 8 823 dwellings, 11 administrative buildings/o...

In October 2022, the total consumer confidence indicator decreases by 0.6 percentage points in comparison with July, which is due entirely to the decreased confidence among the urban population.

In 2021, the total amount of expenditure on research and development activity (R&D) was 1 074.0 million BGN, which was 4.9% more than the previous year. The annual growth tendency is retained for the period 2017 - 2021.

R&D intensity (R&D expenditure as a percentage of the gross domestic product) amounted to 0.77% and it was 0.08 percentage points lower than in 2020.

In the structure of R&D expenditure by fields of science in 2021, as in the previous year, the highest share belonged to the R&D expenditure in technical sciences - 51.5% (...

In October 2022, the total business climate indicator decreases by 1.7 percentage points compared to September. A reduction of the indicator is observed in industry, retail trade and service sector, and only in construction an improvement is registered.

In all sectors, the factor, limiting with the most extend the enterprises’ activity remains the uncertain economic environment.

The Total Producer Price Index in Industry increased by 6.8% in September 2022 compared to the previous month. Higher prices were registered in the electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply by 15.6%, in the mining and quarrying industry by 6.5%, and in the manufacturing by 0.7%.

The Producer Price Index on the Domestic Market increased by 9.2% in September 2022 compared to the previous month. The domestic prices went up in the electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply by 15.5%, in the mining and quarrying industry by 2.0%, and ...

In September 2022, the number of the trips of Bulgarian residents abroad was 643.7 thousand or by 11.1% above the registered in September 2021.

The trips with holiday and recreation purpose in September 2022 composed the greatest share of the total number of trips of Bulgarian residents abroad - 42.3%, followed by those with other purposes (as a guest, education and visit the cultural and sports events) - 39.3%, and with professional purpose - 18.4%.

In September 2022, the number of visits of non-residents to Bulgaria was 1 112.7 thousand or 44.0% more in comparison with...

The exports of goods from Bulgaria to third countries increased by 35.8% compared to the same period of 2021 and amounted to 20 479.4 million BGN, while the imports of goods from third countries grew by 63.1% and added up to 31 495.8 million BGN.

Тhe most notable growth in the exports of goods to third countries compared to the same period of 2021 was recorded in the sections ‘Mineral fuel, lubricants and related materials’ (203.3%) and ‘Animal and vegetable oils, fats and waxes’ (123.1%). A fall was reported in the section ‘Manuf...

In August 2022, 3 624 accommodation establishments - hotels, motels, camping sites, mountain chalets and other establishments for short-term accommodation with more than 10 bed-places, functioned in the country with 144.3 thousand rooms and 331.7 thousand bed-places in them. In comparison with August 2021, the total number of accommodation establishments (functioned during the period) increased by 18.5% and the bed-places in them - by 15.4%.

The total number of nights spent in all accommodation establishments in August 2022 was 6 152.8 thousand, or by 14.8% more in comparison with...

Тhe exports of goods from Bulgaria to the EU increased by 44.4% compared to the same period of 2021 and amounted to 36 518.8 million BGN, while the imports of goods from the EU grew by 32.9% and reached 33 948.0 million BGN.

The most notable growth in the exports of goods to the EU compared to the same period of 2021 was recorded in sections ‘Mineral fuel, lubricants and related materials’ (301.9%) and ‘Animal and vegetable oils, fats and waxes’ (171.3%). A fall was reported in the section ‘Beverages and tobacco’ ...

Тhe index of production in section ‘Construction’ increased by 0.5% in August 2022 compared to the previous month. An equal increase was observed in the production of building construction and the production of civil engineering, both - by 0.5%.

As compared to August 2021, the index of production in construction increased by 1.0%. In building construction an increase of 3.3% was registered, while in civil engineering a decrease of 2.0% was observed.

In August 2022 the turnover in ‘Retail trade, except motor vehicles and motorcycles’ at constant prices increased by 1.0% compared to the previous month. The data are preliminary and seasonally adjusted.

An increase of turnover was reported in ‘Retail sale of food, beverages and tobacco’ by 6.5%, in ‘Retail sale of automotive fuel in specialised stores’ by 1.1% and in ‘Retail sale of non-food products (except fuel)’ by 0.5%.

The calendar adjusted turnover increased by 2.1% in August 2022 as compared to the same month of 2021.

An increase was seen in ‘Retail sal...

The Industrial Production Index increased by 0.7% in August 2022 compared to July 2022. The data are preliminary and seasonally adjusted.

Compared to the previous month an increase was reported in the electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply - by 1.5% and in manufacturing - by 1.2%, while a decrease was seen in the mining and quarrying industry - by 7.6%.

In August 2022 the calendar adjusted Industrial Production Index rose by 16.5% in comparison with the same month of 2021.

Growth compared to August 2021 was reported in the electricity, gas, steam a...

The Total Producer Price Index increased by 8.7% in August 2022 compared to the previous month. Higher prices were registered in the electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply by 28.0%, and in the mining and quarrying industry by 5.6%, while lower prices were observed in the manufacturing by 1.6%.

The Producer Price Index on the Domestic Market increased by 12.5% compared to July 2022. The domestic prices went up in the electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply by 26.5%, and in mining and quarrying industry by 5.3%. Prices fell ...

In September 2022, the total business climate indicator increases by 0.8 percentage points in comparison with the previous month.

An increase of the indicator is observed in industry, retail trade and service sector. Only in construction, the business climate is decreased.

In all sectors, the most serious problem for the business development remains the uncertain economic environment.

In August 2022, the number of the trips of Bulgarian residents abroad was 744.9 thousand or by 18.9% above the registered in August 2021.  

The trips with holiday and recreation purpose in August 2022 composed the greatest share of the total number of trips of Bulgarian residents abroad - 44.7%, followed by those with other purposes (as a guest, education and visit the cultural and sports events) - 39.6%, and with professional purpose - 15.7%.

In August 2022, the number of visits by foreigners to Bulgaria was 1 897.3 thousand or 23.4% more in comparison with August ...

Тhe exported goods amounted to 68 431.2 million BGN or 24.9% more than in 2020. The imported goods were for 76 742.6 million BGN, which is 27.6% more than the previous year.

The largest growth in the exports of goods compared to 2020 was reported in the section ‘Animal and vegetable oils, fats and waxes’ (63.3%). Fall was observed only in the section ‘Beverages and tobacco’ (13.1%). The largest growth in the imports of goods was registered in the section ‘Mineral fuel, lubricants and related materials’ (71.8%) whi...

Тhe exports of goods from Bulgaria to the EU increased by 44.6% compared to the same period of 2021 and amounted to 31 034.6 million BGN, while the imports of goods from the EU grew by 33.1% and reached 28 758.2 million BGN.

The most notable growth in the exports of goods to the EU compared to the same period of 2021 was recorded in sections ‘Mineral fuel, lubricants and related materials’ (291.3%) and ‘Animal and vegetable oils, fats and waxes’ (188.2%). Fall was reported in the section ‘Beverages and tobacco’ (1...

In the period January - July 2022, the exports of goods from Bulgaria to third countries increased by 36.6% compared to the same period of 2021 and amounted to 17 772.2 million BGN, while the imports of goods from third countries grew by 67.5% and added up to 27 696.4 million BGN.

Тhe most notable growth in the exports of goods to third countries compared to the same period of 2021 was recorded in the sections ‘Mineral fuel, lubricants and related materials’ (228.7%) and ‘Animal and vegetable oils, fats and waxes’...

In July 2022, 3 615 accommodation establishments - hotels, motels, camping sites, mountain chalets and other establishments for short-term accommodation with more than 10 bed-places, functioned in the country with 144.0 thousand rooms and 327.9 thousand bed-places in them. In comparison with July 2021, the total number of accommodation establishments (functioned during the period) increased by 18.2% and the bed-places in them - by 16.0%.

The total number of nights spent in all accommodation establishments in July 2022 was 5 385.2 thousand, or by 26.7% more in comparison with the s...

In July 2022 the turnover in ‘Retail trade, except motor vehicles and motorcycles’ at constant prices kept the level of the previous month.

A decrease of 3.5% was reported in ‘Retail sale of food, beverages and tobacco’.

An increase by 2.0 and 1.2% was registered in ‘Retail sale of automotive fuel in specialised stores’ and ‘Retail sale of non-food products (except fuel)’, respectively.

The calendar adjusted turnover decreased by 0.7% in July 2022 as compared to the same month of 2021.

A decline of 10.2% was observed in ‘Retail sale of food, beverages...

The Industrial Production Index increased by 0.9% in July 2022 compared to June 2022. The data are preliminary and seasonally adjusted.

An increase compared to the previous month was reported in the electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply - by 12.7%, in the mining and quarrying industry - by 3.9%, and a decrease in manufacturing - by 1.6%.

In July 2022, the calendar adjusted Industrial Production Index rose by 17.7% in comparison with the same month of 2021.

Growth compared to July 2021 was reported in the electricity, gas, steam and air conditionin...

Тhe index of production in section ‘Construction’ decreased by 0.5% in July 2022 compared to the previous month. The production index of civil engineering fell by 0.7% and production of building construction - by 0.4%.

As compared to July 2021 the index of production in construction decreased by 1.1%. In building construction, a decrease of 3.1% was registered, while in civil engineering an increase of 0.5% was observed.

The foreign direct investments (FDI) in the non-financial sector as of 31.12.2021 amounted to 28 137 million euro at current prices (according to preliminary data).

In 2021 the largest volume of the foreign direct investments was made in Industry sector - 12 210 million euro. Next by FDI volume was Service sector (Wholesale and retail trade; repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles; Transport, communication and services; Accommodation and food service activities) - 6 278 million euro.

In 2021, in the structure of FDI by economic activity an increase w...

412 119 were the non-financial enterprises in Bulgaria that submitted an annual report on their activity for 2021 at the National Statistical Institute (NSI), which was only 0.1% more compared to 2020. Their number of persons employed calculated in full-time equivalent (FTE) was 2 129 746 or by 1.8% more than the previous year (the data are preliminary).

The largest share of economically active non-financial enterprises in 2021 were in the service and trade sector (81.6%), which formed 62.4% of all persons employed. The share of non-financial enterprises in the ‘Industry’, ‘Constr...

At the National Statistical Institute, according to preliminary data, 45 licensed insurers, 10 pension companies and 28 supplementary pension funds managed by them, as well as 16 funds for making payments, 251 special investment purpose companies and 9 967 associations and foundations have submitted their annual reports for 2021.

Insurance companies

The insurance companies realised turnover^[1] of 3 290 million BGN in 2021, with the data coming from a total of 45 licensed insurers that submitted an annual report on their activity to t...

The Total Producer Price Index increased by 3.8% in July 2022 compared to the previous month. Higher prices were registered in the electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply by 19.3%, while lower prices were observed in the mining and quarrying industry by 14.1%, and in the manufacturing by 2.2%.

The Producer Price Index on the Domestic Market increased by 8.0% compared to June 2022. The domestic prices went up in the electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply by 20.1%. Prices fell in the mining and quarrying industry by 7.8%, an...

In July 2022, the number of the trips of Bulgarian residents abroad was 731.7 thousand or by 19.4% above the registered in July 2021.

The trips with holiday and recreation purpose in July 2022 composed the greatest share of the total number of trips of Bulgarian residents abroad - 44.5%, followed by those with other purposes (as a guest, education and visit the cultural and sport events) - 37.7%, and with professional purpose - 17.8%.

In July 2022, the number of arrivals of visitors from abroad to Bulgaria was 1 533.5 thousand or by 24.2% more in comparison with July 202...

In August 2022, the total business climate indicator decreases by 3.4 percentage points compared to the previous month.

More unfavourable business climate is registered in industry, retail trade and service sector, and in construction the indicator preserves its level from July.

The uncertain economic environment remain the main factor limiting the activity in all sectors.

There was an increase in the goods carried and the transport performance by the freight land and water transport increased by 1.7% and 5.6%, respectively. The data are preliminary.

Compared to the corresponding quarter of the previous year the number of transported passengers by the passenger transport (land, water and urban electrical transport) rose by 17.4%. The transport performance also increased by 30.5% compared to the second quarter of 2021.

Freight land transport

The transported goods by the land transport were by 1.8% more and the tra...

According to the preliminary data for the second quarter of 2022, the total turnover index in the section ‘Transportation, storage and post’, calculated on the basis of seasonally adjusted data, rose by 9.8% compared to the first quarter of 2022. In the section ‘Information and communication’ the turnover index increased by 5.4%.

In the second quarter of 2022, 1 076.6 thousand Bulgarian residents made tourist trips. The majority - 80.0% of them travelled only within the country, 15.7% - only abroad and 4.3% - both within the country and abroad. Compared to the same quarter of 2021, the total number of the travelled persons aged 15 and over increased by 15.5%.

According to the preliminary data of the National Statistical Institute at the end of June 2022, the number of employees under labour contract increased by 1.5% as compared to the end of March 2022 and reached 2.31 million.

In the second quarter of 2022, in comparison with the first quarter of 2022, the average monthly wages and salaries increased by 7.8% and reached 1 730 BGN.

According to the preliminary data, in June 2022, the index of production in section ‘Construction’ calculated on the basis of seasonally adjusted data was 1.4% below the level of the previous month. In June 2022, the calendar adjusted index of production in construction decreased by 0.5% in comparison with the same month of 2021.

According to the preliminary seasonally adjusted data in June 2022, the turnover in ‘Retail trade, except motor vehicles and motorcycles’ at constant prices decreased by 1.4% compared to the previous month. The calendar adjusted turnover kept the level from the same month of the previous year.

According to the preliminary data in June 2022 the Industrial Production Index, seasonally adjusted, decreased by 0.8% compared to May 2022.

In June 2022, the calendar adjusted Industrial Production Index rose by 17.4% in comparison with the same month of 2021.

In June 2022, 3 090 accommodation establishments - hotels, motels, camping sites, mountain chalets and other establishments for short-term accommodation with more than 10 bed-places, functioned in the country. The total number of rooms in them was 131.4 thousand and the bed-places were 295.0 thousand. In comparison with June 2021, the total number of accommodation establishments (functioned during the period) increased by 20.1% and the bed-places in them - by 20.6%.

The total number of nights spent in all accommodation establishments registered in June 2022 was 2 824.7 t...

In the period January - May 2022, the exports of goods from Bulgaria to the EU increased by 43.5% compared to the same period of 2021 and amounted to 25 350.1 million BGN, while the imports of goods to Bulgaria from the EU grew by 30.6% and reached 23 309.6 million BGN.

In May 2022, the exports to the EU increased by 72.4% compared to the corresponding month of the previous year and amounted to 5 788.2 million BGN, while the imports grew by 36.0% and added up to 5 013.6 million BGN.

In the period January - June 2022, the exports of goods from Bulgaria to third countries increased by 33.9% compared to the same period of 2021 and amounted to 14 697.3 million BGN, while the imports of goods from third countries grew by 63.6% and added up to 23 118.9 million BGN.

In the period January - June 2022, the total value of all exported goods to third countries and the EU amounted to 45 748.5 million BGN, which is 41.0% more than the same period of the previous year, while the total value of all imported goods from third countries and the EU added up to 51...

In July 2022, the total consumer confidence indicator increases by 3.0 percentage points compared to its April level, which is mainly due to the increased confidence among the urban population.

In the second quarter of 2022, the municipal authorities issued building permits for the construction of 2 249 residential buildings with 13 810 dwellings, 20 administrative buildings/offices and 1 164 other buildings. The construction of 1 388 residential buildings with 7 202 dwellings, 11 administrative buildings/offices and 604 other buildings was started.

Business demography statistics present data on the active population of enterprises, enterprise births, enterprise survivals (followed up to five years after birth), enterprise deaths, and high-growth enterprises.

The term business demography is used to cover a set of variables which explain the characteristics and demography of the business population. For each business demographic event, NACE Rev.2 activity, employment and legal form are available.

The Total Producer Price Index in June 2022 increased by 3.4% compared to the previous month and by 41.4% compared to the same month of 2021. The Producer Price Index on the Domestic Market in June 2022 increased by 2.4% compared to the previous month; compared to the same month of 2021, the domestic prices increased by 49.3%.

In July 2022, the total business climate indicator remains approximately to its level from the previous month. An increase of the indicator is observed in industry and retail trade, in service sector preserves its level from June, and in construction a reduction is registered.

In June 2022, the number of the trips of Bulgarian residents abroad was 680.6 thousand or by 48.4% above the registered in June 2021.

In June 2022, the number of arrivals of visitors from abroad to Bulgaria was 1 131.9 thousand or by 52.4% more in comparison with June 2021. An increase in the trips with all observed purposes was registered. Transit passes through the country were 34.9% (394.6 thousand) of all visits of foreigners to Bulgaria.

In the period January - April 2022, the exports of goods from Bulgaria to the EU increased by 36.7% compared to the same period of 2021 and amounted to 19 561.9 million BGN, while the imports of goods to Bulgaria from the EU grew by 29.2% and reached 18 296.0 million BGN.

In April 2022, the exports to the EU increased by 36.1% compared to the corresponding month of the previous year and amounted to 5 358.1 million BGN, while the imports grew by 23.7% and added up to 4 454.0 mil...

In the period January - May 2022, the exports of goods from Bulgaria to third countries increased by 29.5% compared to the same period of 2021 and amounted to 11 698.0 million BGN, while the imports of goods from third countries grew by 60.8% and added up to 18 400.3 million BGN.

In the period January - May 2022, the total value of all exported goods to third countries and the EU amounted to 37 067.2 million BGN, which is 38.8% more than the same period of the previ...

In May 2022, 2 373 accommodation establishments - hotels, motels, camping sites, mountain chalets and other establishments for short-term accommodation with more than 10 bed-places, functioned in the country. The total number of rooms in them was 94.2 thousand and the bed-places were 207.2 thousand. In comparison with May 2021, the total number of accommodation establishments (functioned during the period) increased by 16.2% and the bed-places in them - by 34.9%.

The total number of nights spent in all accommodation establishments registered in May 2022 was 1 263.1 thousand, ...

According to the preliminary seasonally adjusted data in May 2022, the turnover in ‘Retail trade, except motor vehicles and motorcycles’ at constant prices increased by 0.4% compared to the previous month. The calendar adjusted turnover rose by 5.0% compared to the same month of the previous year.

According to the preliminary data in May 2022 the Industrial Production Index, seasonally adjusted, increased by 1.4% compared to April 2022. In May 2022, the calendar adjusted Industrial Production Index rose by 20.2% in comparison with the same month of 2021.

According to the preliminary data, in May 2022, the index of production in section ‘Construction’ calculated on the basis of seasonally adjusted data was 2.0% above the level of the previous month. In May 2022, the calendar adjusted index of production in construction increased by 5.8% in comparison with the same month of 2021.

During the period 2018 - 2020, 36.2% of the enterprises with 10 or more persons employed carried out an innovation activity.

The Total Producer Price Index in May 2022 increased by 0.4% compared to the previous month and by 38.2% compared to the same month of 2021. The Producer Price Index on the Domestic Market in May 2022 decreased by 0.1% compared to the previous month; compared to the same month of 2021, the domestic prices increased by 47.7%.

In June 2022, the total business climate indicator increases by 1.4 percentage points compared to the previous month as an improvement of the indicator is observed in industry, construction and retail trade.

In May 2022, the number of the trips of Bulgarian residents abroad was 729.4 thousand or by 119.7% above the registered in May 2021.

In May 2022, the number of arrivals of visitors from abroad to Bulgaria was 803.3 thousand or by 119.7% more in comparison with May 2021. An increase in the trips with all observed purposes was registered. Transit passes through the country were 37.4% (300.6 thousand) of all visits of foreigners to Bulgaria.

In the period January - March 2022, the exports of goods from Bulgaria to the EU increased by 36.9% compared to the same period of 2021 and amounted to 14 203.8 million BGN, while the imports of goods to Bulgaria from the EU grew by 31.0% and reached 13 842.0 million BGN.

In March 2022, the exports to the EU increased by 49.4% compared to the corresponding month of the previous year and amounted to 5 598.9 million BGN, while the imports grew by 32.4% and added up to 5 29...

In the period January - April 2022, the exports of goods from Bulgaria to third countries increased by 27.5% compared to the same period of 2021 and amounted to 9 224.7 million BGN, while the imports of goods from third countries grew by 58.3% and added up to 14 385.0 million BGN.

In the period January - April 2022, the total value of all exported goods to third countries and the EU amounted to 28 781.3 million BGN, which is 33.6% more than the same period of the previous year, wh...

In April 2022, 1 991 accommodation establishments - hotels, motels, camping sites, mountain chalets and other establishments for short-term accommodation with more than 10 bed-places, functioned in the country. The total number of rooms in them was 63.6 thousand and the bed-places were 135.4 thousand. In comparison with April 2021, the total number of accommodation establishments (functioned during the period) increased by 15.0% and the bed-places in them - by 30.4%.

The total number of nights spent in all accommodation establishments registered in April 2022 was 887.7 thousa...

According to the preliminary data, in April 2022, the index of production in section ‘Construction’ calculated on the basis of seasonally adjusted data was 0.6% below the level of the previous month. In April 2022, the calendar adjusted index of production in construction decreased by 2.4% in comparison with the same month of 2021.

According to the preliminary seasonally adjusted data in April 2022, the turnover in ‘Retail trade, except motor vehicles and motorcycles’ at constant prices decreased by 0.8% compared to the previous month. The calendar-adjusted turnover rose by 5.7% compared to the same month of the previous year.

According to the preliminary data in April 2022, the Industrial Production Index, seasonally adjusted, decreased by 0.4% compared to March 2022.

In April 2022, the calendar adjusted Industrial Production Index rose by 16.9% in comparison with the same month of 2021.

The Total Producer Price Index in April 2022 increased by 3.3% compared to the previous month and by 40.2% compared to the same month of 2021. The Producer Price Index on the Domestic Market in April 2022 rose by 4.1% compared to the previous month; compared to the same month of 2021, the domestic prices increased by 49.8%.

In May 2022, the total business climate indicator decreases by 0.7 percentage points in comparison with April as a result of the more unfavourable business climate in industry, construction and retail trade.

In the first quarter of 2022, during the continuing epidemic situation in the country, 703.4 thousand Bulgarian residents made tourist trips. The majority - 87.9% of them travelled only within the country, 10.8% - only abroad and 1.3% - both within the country and abroad. Compared to the same quarter of 2021, the total number of the travelled persons aged 15 and over increased by 53.9%.

In April 2022, the number of the trips of Bulgarian residents abroad was 590.5 thousand or by 117.7% above the registered in April 2021.

In April 2022, the number of arrivals of visitors from abroad to Bulgaria was 646.3 thousand or by 128.8% more in comparison with April 2021. An increase in the trips with all observed purposes was registered. Transit passes through the country were 42.9% (277.5 thousand) of all visits of foreigners to Bulgaria.

According to preliminary data during the first quarter of 2022 in comparison with the same quarter of 2021, the goods carried increased (by 2.2%), while the transport performance from the freight land and water transport decreased by 7.9%.

Compared to the corresponding quarter of the previous year the number of transported passengers by passenger transport (land, water and urban electrical transport) rose by 15.6%. The transport performance also increased by 19.9% compared to first quarter of 2021.

According to the preliminary data for the first quarter of 2022, the total turnover index in the section ‘Transportation, storage and post’, calculated on the basis of seasonally adjusted data, rose by 9.6% compared to the fourth quarter of 2021. In the section ‘Information and communication’ the turnover index increased by 6.1%.

According to the preliminary data of the National Statistical Institute at the end of March 2022 the number of employees under labour contract increased by 0.4% as compared to the end of December 2021 and reached 2.27 million.

In the first quarter of 2022 in comparison with the fourth quarter of 2021 the average monthly wages and salaries decreased by 1.2% getting 1 593 BGN.

In the period January - February 2022, the exports of goods from Bulgaria to the EU increased by 29.7% compared to the same period of 2021 and amounted to 8 598.5 million BGN, while the imports of goods to Bulgaria from the EU grew by 30.2% and reached 8 546.4 million BGN.

In February 2022, the exports to the EU increased by 32.0% compared to the corresponding month of the previous year and amounted to 4 381.5 million BGN, while the imports grew by 28.0% and added u...

In the period January - March 2022, the exports of goods from Bulgaria to third countries increased by 28.3% compared to the same period of 2021 and amounted to 6 761.7 million BGN, while the imports of goods from third countries grew by 58.0% and added up to 10 447.0 million BGN.

In the period January - March 2022, the total value of all exported goods to third countries and the EU amounted to 20 962.2 million BGN, which is 34.0% more than the same period of the pr...

In March 2022, during the continuing epidemic situation, 1 717 accommodation establishments - hotels, motels, camping sites, mountain chalets and other establishments for short-term accommodation with more than 10 bed-places, functioned in the country. The total number of rooms in them was 51.2 thousand and the bed-places were 104.1 thousand. In comparison with March 2021, the total number of accommodation establishments (functioned during the period) remained the same and the bed-places in them increased by 5.4%.

The total number of nights spent in all accommodation est...

According to the preliminary seasonally adjusted data in March 2022, the turnover in ‘Retail trade, except motor vehicles and motorcycles’ at constant prices increased by 1.6% compared to the previous month. The calendar-adjusted turnover rose by 9.6% compared to the same month of the previous year.

According to the preliminary data, in March 2022, the Industrial Production Index, seasonally adjusted, increased by 5.0% compared to February 2022.

In March 2022, the calendar adjusted Industrial Production Index rose by 19.0% in comparison with the same month of 2021.

According to the preliminary data, in March 2022, the index of production in section ‘Construction’ calculated on the basis of seasonally adjusted data was 0.4% below the level of the previous month. In March 2022, the calendar adjusted index of production in construction increased by 1.6% in comparison with the same month of 2021.

In April 2022, the survey shows an increase in pessimism in consumers’ assessments and expectations in comparison with January. The total consumer confidence indicator decreases by 4.9 percentage points compared to its level 3 months ago, which is due to the decreased confidence among both rural and urban inhabitants - by 5.7 and 4.6 percentage points, respectively.

In the first quarter of 2022, the municipal authorities issued building permits for the construction of 1 850 residential buildings with 9 489 dwellings, 18 administrative buildings/offices and 1 071 other buildings. The construction of 1 269 residential buildings with 7 657 dwellings, 11 administrative buildings/offices and 572 other buildings was started.

In March 2022, in the conditions of the continuing epidemic situation, the number of trips of Bulgarian residents abroad was 538.3 thousand, or by 114.1% above the registered in March 2021.

In March 2022, the number of arrivals of visitors from abroad to Bulgaria was 627.8 thousand, or by 118.1% above in comparison with March 2021, as the transit was 46.1% (289.6 thousand) of all visits of foreigners in the country.

The Total Producer Price Index in March 2022 increased by 4.3% compared to the previous month and by 36.1% compared to the same month of 2021. The Producer Price Index on the Domestic Market in March 2022 rose by 4.3% compared to the previous month; compared to the same month of 2021, the domestic prices increased by 45.2%.

In April 2022, the total business climate indicator increases by 4.2 percentage points compared to the previous month. An improvement of the indicator is observed in industry, retail trade and service sector, and in construction a reduction is registered.

In January 2022, the exports of goods from Bulgaria to the EU increased by 27.4% compared to the same month of 2021 and amounted to 4 217.0 million BGN, while the imports of goods to Bulgaria from the EU grew by 32.6% and reached 4 149.1 million BGN.

In the period January - February 2022, the exports of goods from Bulgaria to third countries increased by 33.9% compared to the same period of 2021 and amounted to 4 277.2 million BGN, while the imports of goods from third countries grew by 73.3% and added up to 6 792.7 million BGN.

In the period January - February 2022, the total value of all exported goods to third countries and the EU amounted to 12 867.1 million BGN, which is 31.0% more than the same period of t...

In February 2022, during the continuing epidemic situation, 1 675 accommodation establishments - hotels, motels, camping sites, mountain chalets and other establishments for short-term accommodation with more than 10 bed-places, functioned in the country. The total number of rooms in them was 49.9 thousand and the bed-places were 101.2 thousand. In comparison with February 2021, the total number of accommodation establishments (functioned during the period) increased by 0.5% and the bed-places in them - by 3.5%.

The total number of nights spent in all accommodation ...

According to the preliminary data, in February 2022 the index of production in section ‘Construction’ calculated on the basis of seasonally adjusted data was 0.2% above the level of the previous month. In February 2022, the calendar adjusted index of production in construction increased by 4.3% in comparison with the same month of 2021.

According to the preliminary seasonally adjusted data in February 2022 the turnover in ‘Retail trade, except motor vehicles and motorcycles’ at constant prices decreased by 0.5% compared to the previous month. The calendar-adjusted turnover rose by 6.6% compared to the same month of the previous year.

According to the preliminary data in February 2022 the Industrial Production Index, seasonally adjusted, decreased by 0.8% compared to January 2022.

In February 2022, the calendar adjusted Industrial Production Index rose by 14.5% in comparison with the same month of 2021.

The Total Producer Price Index in February 2022 increased by 1.0% compared to the previous month and by 32.3% compared to the same month of 2021. The Producer Price Index on the Domestic Market in February 2022 decreased by 0.1% compared to the previous month; compared to the same month of 2021, the domestic prices rose by 40.5%.

In February 2022, in the conditions of the continuing epidemic situation, the number of trips of Bulgarian residents abroad was 417.5 thousand, or by 93.9% above the registered in February 2021.

In February 2022, the number of arrivals of visitors from abroad to Bulgaria was 409.8 thousand, or by 70.1% above in comparison with February 2021, as the transit was 39.2% (160.7 thousand) of all visits of foreigners in the country.

In March 2022, the total business climate indicator decreases by 4.8 percentage points in comparison with February as a result of the unfavourable business climate in industry, retail trade and service sector.

Main results from the short business survey amongst the non-financial enterprises that aims at presenting information on the economic effects of the declared state of emergency and the ensuing epidemic situation in the country due to COVID-19.

In March 2022, the National Statistical Institute conducted the monthly inquiry survey of the managers of accommodation establishments to gather accurate and timely information on the state and development of their businesses during the ensuing epidemic situation in the country.

In 2021, the exports of goods from Bulgaria to the EU increased by 26.3% compared to 2020 and amounted to 45 266.5 million BGN, while the imports of goods to Bulgaria from the EU grew by 26.7% and reached 46 338.0 million BGN.

In December 2021, the exports to the EU increased by 43.5% compared to the corresponding month of the previous year and amounted to 3 889.6 million BGN, while the imports grew by 40.8% and added up to 4 489.0 million BGN.

In January 2022, the exports of goods from Bulgaria to third countries increased by 38.1% compared to January 2021 and amounted to 2 002.8 million BGN, while the imports of goods from third countries grew by 81.8% and added up to 3 491.1 million BGN.

In January 2022, the total value of all exported goods to third countries and the EU amounted to 6 246.7 million BGN, which is 31.2% more than the same month of the  previous year, while the total value of all imported goods from third coun...

In the fourth quarter of 2021, during the continuing epidemic situation in the country, 800.4 thousand Bulgarian residents made tourist trips. The majority - 93.9% of them travelled only within the country, 5.3% - only abroad and 0.8% - both within the country and abroad. Compared to the same quarter of 2020, the total number of the travelled persons aged 15 and over increased by 69.7%.

According to the preliminary data of the National Statistical Institute at the end of December 2021 the number of employees under labour contract decreased by 0.7% as compared to the end of September 2021 and reached 2.27 million.

In the fourth quarter of 2021 in comparison with the third quarter of 2021 the average monthly wages and salaries increased by 6.1% getting 1 612 BGN.

According to the preliminary data in December 2021, the Industrial Production Index, seasonally adjusted, increased by 0.7% compared to November 2021.

In December 2021, the calendar adjusted Industrial Production Index rose by 14.3% in comparison with the same month of 2020.

In December 2021, during the continuing epidemic situation, 1 806 accommodation establishments - hotels, motels, camping sites, mountain chalets and other establishments for short-term accommodation with more than 10 bed-places, functioned in the country. The total number of the rooms in them was 52.8 thousand and the bed-places were 107.3 thousand. In comparison with December 2020, the total number of accommodation establishments (functioned during the period) increased by 17.4% and the bed-places in them - by 16.7%.

The total number of nights spent in all accommodation establish...

In the period January - November 2021, the exports of goods from Bulgaria to the EU increased by 24.9% compared to the same period of 2020 and amounted to 41 391.1 million BGN, while the imports of goods to Bulgaria from the EU grew by 25.3% and reached 41 837.4 million BGN.

In November 2021, the exports to the EU increased by 32.5% compared to the corresponding month of the previous year and amounted to 4 384.3 million BGN, while the imports grew by 27.4% and added up to 4&n...

In 2021, the exports of goods from Bulgaria to third countries increased by 19.6% compared to 2020 and amounted to 22 648.3 million BGN, while the imports of goods from third countries grew by 29.0% and added up to 30 369.7 million BGN.

In 2021, the total value of all exported goods to third countries and the EU amounted to 67 933.5 million BGN, which is 24.0% more than the previous year, while the total value of all imported goods from third countries and the EU ad...

According to the preliminary data, in December 2021 the index of production in section ‘Construction’ calculated on the basis of seasonally adjusted data was 0.4% below the level of the previous month. In December 2021, the calendar adjusted index of production in construction increased by 1.4% in comparison with the same month of 2020.

According to the preliminary seasonally adjusted data in December 2021 the turnover in ‘Retail trade, except of motor vehicles and motorcycles’ at constant prices increased by 1.0% compared to the previous month. The calendar adjusted turnover rose by 9.4% compared to the same month of the previous year.

In the fourth quarter of 2021, the municipal authorities issued building permits for the construction of 1 910 residential buildings with 12 394 dwellings, 33 administrative buildings/offices and 1 171 other buildings. The construction of 1 319 residential buildings with 7 336 dwellings, 14 administrative buildings/offices and 607 other buildings was started.

In January 2022, the total consumer confidence indicator increases by 1.7 percentage points in comparison with October 2021, as for the urban population the increase is 0.7 percentage points and for the rural population - 4.1 percentage points.

Total Producer Price Index in December 2021 increased by 1.7% compared to the previous month and with 30.8% compared to the same month of 2020. Producer Price Index on Domestic Market in December 2021 increased by 3.4% compared to the previous month; compared to the same month of 2020 the domestic prices rose by 38.6%.

In January 2022, the total business climate indicator increases by 1.5 percentage points in comparison with December 2021 as a growth of the indicator is registered in industry, construction and retail trade.

In December 2021, in the conditions of the continuing epidemic situation, the number of the trips of Bulgarian residents abroad was 551.0 thousand, or by 104.5% above the registered in December 2020.

In December 2021, the number of arrivals of visitors from abroad to Bulgaria was 475.1 thousand, or by 92.4% above in comparison with December 2020, as the transit was 54.2% (257.7 thousand) of all visits of foreigners in the country.

In January 2022, the National Statistical Institute conducted the monthly inquiry survey of the managers of accommodation establishments to gather accurate and timely information on the state and development of their businesses during the ensuing epidemic situation in the country.

Main results from the short business survey amongst the non-financial enterprises, aiming at presenting information on the economic effects from the declared state of emergency and the ensuing epidemic situation in the country due to COVID-19.

In the period January - October 2021, the exports of goods from Bulgaria to the EU increased by 24.1% compared to the same period of 2020 and amounted to 37 006.8 million BGN while the imports of goods to Bulgaria from the EU grew by 25.0% and reached 37 318.2 million BGN.

In October 2021, the exports to the EU increased by 26.8% compared to the corresponding month of the previous year and amounted to 4 216.8 million BGN while the imports grew by 22.8% and added up to 4 118.4 million BGN.

In the period January - November 2021 the exports of goods from Bulgaria to third countries increased by 20.0% compared to the same period of 2020 and amounted to 20 593.9 million BGN while the imports of goods from third countries grew by 27.8% and added up to 27 522.2 million BGN.

In the period January - November 2021 the total value of all exported goods to third countries and EU amounted to 61 992.4 million BGN, which is 23.3% more than the same period of the previous year, while the total value of all imported goods from third countries and EU added up to 69&nb...

In November 2021, during the continuing epidemic situation, 1 569 accommodation establishments - hotels, motels, camping sites, mountain chalets and other establishments for short-term accommodation with more than 10 bed-places, functioned in the country. The total number of the rooms in them was 46.7 thousand and the bed-places were 93.7 thousand. In comparison with November 2020, the total number of accommodation establishments (functioned during the period) increased by 4.0% and the bed-places in them - by 2.4%.

The total number of nights spent in all accommodation establishmen...

According to the preliminary seasonally adjusted data in November 2021 the turnover in ‘Retail trade, except of motor vehicles and motorcycles’ at constant prices increased by 0.5% compared to the previous month. The calendar adjusted turnover rose by 6.7% compared to the same month of the previous year.

According to the preliminary data in November 2021 the Industrial Production Index, seasonally adjusted, increased by 1.4% compared to October 2021.

In November 2021, the calendar adjusted Industrial Production Index rose by 13.2% in comparison with the same month of 2020.

According to the preliminary data, in November 2021 the index of production in section ‘Construction’ calculated on the basis of seasonally adjusted data was 1.9% above the level of the previous month. In November 2021, the calendar adjusted index of production in construction increased by 3.2% in comparison with the same month of 2020.

In November 2021, in the conditions of the continuing epidemic situation, the number of the trips of Bulgarian residents abroad was 460.4 thousand, or by 40.3% above the registered in November 2020.

In November 2021, the number of arrivals of visitors from abroad to Bulgaria was 439.5 thousand, or by 55.2% above in comparison with November 2020, as the transit was 55.1% (242.2 thousand) of all visits of foreigners in the country.

Total Producer Price Index in November 2021 increased by 5.8% compared to the previous month and with 31.0% compared to the same month of 2020. Producer Price Index on Domestic Market in November 2021 increased by 8.4% compared to the previous month; compared to the same month of 2020 the domestic prices rose by 35.4%.

In December 2021, the total business climate indicator increases by 2.6 percentage points compared to the previous month. An improvement of the indicator is observed in construction, retail trade and service sector, and in industry is registered a reduction.

In December 2021, the National Statistical Institute conducted the monthly inquiry survey of the managers of accommodation establishments to gather accurate and timely information on the state and development of their businesses during the ensuing epidemic situation in the country.

Main results from the short business survey amongst the non-financial enterprises, aiming at presenting information on the economic effects from the declared state of emergency and the ensuing epidemic situation in the country due to COVID-19.

In the period January - October 2021 the exports of goods from Bulgaria to third countries increased by 20.8% compared to the same period of 2020 and amounted to 18 789.5 million BGN while the imports of goods from third countries grew by 26.4% and added up to 24 486.5 million BGN.

In the period January - October 2021 the total value of all exported goods to third countries and EU amounted to 55 803.6 million BGN, which is 23.0% more than the same period of the prev...

In the period January - September 2021, the exports of goods from Bulgaria to the EU increased by 23.7% compared to the same period of 2020 and amounted to 32 790.0 million BGN while the imports of goods to Bulgaria from the EU grew by 25.3% and reached 33 199.8 million BGN.

In September 2021, the exports to the EU increased by 24.2% compared to the corresponding month of the previous year and amounted to 3 947.1 million BGN while the imports grew by 27.4% and added up to 4&n...

In October 2021, during the continuing epidemic situation, 1 770 accommodation establishments - hotels, motels, camping sites, mountain chalets and other establishments for short-term accommodation with more than 10 bed-places, functioned in the country. The total number of rooms in them was 56.4 thousand and the bed-places were 116.6 thousand. In comparison with October 2020, the total number of accommodation establishments (functioned during the period) decreased by 0.4%, while the bed-places in them increased - by 5.6%.

The total number of nights spent in all accommodation esta...

In 2021, 96.1% of the non-financial enterprises with 10 or more persons employed had internet access. Fixed internet connection was available in 85.7% of the enterprises and the maximum download speed in 39.8% was more than 100 Mbps.

In 2021, 83.5% of the households in Bulgaria had internet access at home, which was by 4.6 percentage points more compared to the previous year.

According to the preliminary data, in October 2021 the index of production in section ‘Construction’ calculated on the basis of seasonally adjusted data was 1.2% below the level of the previous month. In October 2021, the calendar adjusted index of production in construction decreased by 1.9% in comparison with the same month of 2020.

According to the preliminary seasonally adjusted data in October 2021 the turnover in ‘Retail trade, except of motor vehicles and motorcycles’ at constant prices increased by 0.6% compared to the previous month. The calendar adjusted turnover rose by 7.6% compared to the same month of the previous year.

According to the preliminary data in October 2021, the Industrial Production Index, seasonally adjusted, increased by 0.7% compared to September 2021.

In October 2021, the calendar adjusted Industrial Production Index rose by 9.7% in comparison with the same month of 2020.

Total Producer Price Index in October 2021 increased by 3.8% compared to the previous month and by 24.1% compared to the same month of 2020. Producer Price Index on Domestic Market in October 2021 increased by 4.5% compared to the previous month; compared to the same month of 2020 the domestic prices rose by 25.2%.

In November 2021, the National Statistical Institute conducted the monthly inquiry survey of the managers of accommodation establishments to gather accurate and timely information on the state and development of their businesses during the ensuing epidemic situation in the country.

In October 2021, in the conditions of the continuing epidemic situation, the number of the trips of Bulgarian residents abroad was 519.7 thousand, or by 5.4% above the registered in October 2020.

In October 2021, the number of arrivals of visitors from abroad to Bulgaria was 567.6 thousand, or by 35.4% above in comparison with October 2020, as the transit was 53.3% (302.4 thousand) of all visits of foreigners in the country.

In November 2021, the total business climate indicator decreases by 2.2 percentage points in comparison with its October level as a result of the worsened business climate in construction, retail trade and service sector.

Main results from the short business survey amongst the non-financial enterprises, aiming at presenting information on the economic effects from the declared state of emergency and the ensuing epidemic situation in the country due to COVID-19.

According to preliminary data during the third quarter of 2021 both the goods carried and the transport performance by the freight land and water transport increased in comparison with the same quarter of 2020.

In the third quarter of 2021 there was a decrease in the transported passengers (by 2.5%) as well in the transport performance (by 1.3%) from the passenger transport (land, water and urban electrical transport) compared to the same period of the previous year.

According to the preliminary data for the third quarter of 2021 the total turnover index in section ‘Transportation, storage and post’, calculated on the basis of seasonally adjusted data increased by 2.2% compared to the second quarter of 2021. In section ‘Information and communication’ the turnover index increased by 4.3%.

In the third quarter of 2021, during the continuing epidemic situation in the country, 1 327.7 thousand Bulgarian residents made tourist trips. The majority - 95.5% of them travelled only within the country, 4.0% - only abroad and 0.5% - both in the country and abroad.

In the period January - August 2021 the exports of goods from Bulgaria to the EU increased by 23.5% compared to the same period of 2020 and amounted to 28 795.7 million BGN while the imports of goods to Bulgaria from the EU grew by 25.0% and reached 29 026.7 million BGN.

In August 2021 the exports to the EU increased by 26.6% compared to the corresponding month of the previous year and amounted to 3 537.5 million BGN while the imports grew by 23.0% and added up to 3 475....

In the period January - September 2021 the exports of goods from Bulgaria to third countries increased by 20.3% compared to the same period of 2020 and amounted to 16 727.4 million BGN while the imports of goods from third countries grew by 27.2% and added up to 21 685.0 million BGN.

In the period January - September 2021 the total value of all exported goods to third countries and EU amounted to 49 468.9 million BGN, which is 22.4% more than the same period of the previous year, ...

According to the preliminary data of the National Statistical Institute at the end of September 2021 the number of employees under labour contract decreased by 1.0% as compared to the end of June 2021 and reached 2.28 million.

In the third quarter of 2021 in comparison with the second quarter of 2021 the average gross monthly wages and salaries decreased by 0.3% - getting to 1 520 BGN.

According to the preliminary data in September 2021 the Industrial Production Index, seasonally adjusted, increased by 1.6% compared to August 2021.

In September 2021, the calendar adjusted Industrial Production Index rose by 10.5% in comparison with the same month of 2020.

In September 2021, the turnover in the retail trade increased by 0.6% compared to the previous month.

According to the preliminary seasonally adjusted data in September 2021 the turnover in ‘Retail trade, except of motor vehicles and motorcycles’ at constant prices increased by 0.6% compared to the previous month. The calendar adjusted turnover rose by 8.4% compared to the same month of the previous year.

According to the preliminary data, in September 2021 the index of production in section ‘Construction’ calculated on the basis of seasonally adjusted data remained at the level of the previous month. In September 2021, the calendar adjusted index of production in construction increased by 1.0% in comparison with the same month of 2020.

In September 2021, during the continuing epidemic situation, 2 612 accommodation establishments - hotels, motels, camping sites, mountain chalets and other establishments for short-term accommodation with more than 10 bed-places, functioned in the country. The total number of the rooms in them was 114.1 thousand and the bed-places were 255.6 thousand. In comparison with September 2020, the total number of accommodation establishments (functioned during the period) increased by 0.9%, and the bed-places in them - by 12.5%.

The total number of the nights spent in all accommodation es...

In October 2021, the survey shows an increase of the pessimism in consumers’ assessments and expectations in comparison with July. The total consumer confidence indicator decreases by 10.8 percentage points compared to its level 3 months ago, which is due to the decreased confidence among both rural and urban inhabitants - by 11.9 and 10.2 percentage points, respectively.

In the third quarter of 2021, the municipal authorities issued building permits for the construction of 1 846 residential buildings with 8 877 dwellings, 9 administrative buildings/offices and 1 183 other buildings. The construction of 1 357 residential buildings with 6 526 dwellings, 14 administrative buildings/offices and 575 other buildings were started.

According to the preliminary data in 2020 the total amount of expenditure on research and development activity (R&D) was 1 023.8 million BGN, and the personnel engaged in conducting research and experimental development amounted to 26 085 (in full-time equivalent).

Total Producer Price Index in September 2021 increased by 2.4% compared to the previous month and with 20.0% compared to the same month of 2020. Producer Price Index on Domestic Market in September 2021 increased by 3.1% compared to the previous month; compared to the same month of 2020 the domestic prices rose by 20.3%.

In October 2021, the total business climate indicator decreases by 2.3 percentage points compared to the previous month. More unfavourable business climate is registered in industry, retail trade and service sector, while in construction the indicator preserves its September level.

In October 2021, the National Statistical Institute conducted the monthly inquiry survey of the managers of accommodation establishments to gather accurate and timely information on the state and development of their businesses during the ensuing epidemic situation in the country.