Bulgaria’s export sector has shown continued growth in the early months of 2026, with data indicating that total exports reached €18.8 billion from January through May. This marks a 7.4% increase compared to the same timeframe in the previous year. However, the country’s imports have surged even more significantly, climbing 12.8% year-on-year to €24.2 billion during the same period.
In May alone, Bulgaria’s exports rose by 7.8% to €3.72 billion, yet this was overshadowed by a more pronounced increase in imports, which jumped 17.4% to reach €4.68 billion. This dynamic has resulted in a trade deficit for the nation, with the shortfall amounting to €5.4 billion over the first five months of the year.
The trade balance for May reflected this ongoing trend, with a deficit recorded at €957.9 million. The figures point towards a stronger growth in imports compared to exports, highlighting the challenges Bulgaria faces in balancing its trade ledger.
Overall, while the growth in exports is a positive sign for Bulgaria’s economy, the faster pace of import growth suggests that the country is spending more on foreign goods and services than it is earning from its exports. This disparity may require strategic adjustments to address the widening trade deficit.