Retail Price Inspections Intensify in Bulgaria Ahead of Euro Adoption
With Bulgaria preparing to switch to the euro, authorities ramp up price monitoring in retail to protect consumers and ensure fairness in the market
As Bulgaria moves closer to adopting the euro, the Consumer Protection Commission (CPCo) has increased its inspection activities in retail, focusing on price control measures. In partnership with the National Revenue Agency (NRA), the commission has been conducting targeted and enhanced inspections of retailers, particularly those with annual turnovers below 10 million Bulgarian leva (about 5.1 million euros). Last week alone, the two agencies carried out 80 joint inspections, with the CPCo taking the lead in 42 of these cases. Inspectors requested documentation and explanations of pricing policies from each retailer they visited.
Earlier in December, the CPCo and NRA jointly launched a special campaign inspecting stores selling meat, meat products, and fish, with an emphasis on fish products. A total of 111 coordinated spot checks were performed during this campaign, and the Consumer Protection Commission was responsible for 66 of these. Following price hikes identified on the public price monitoring platform “How Much Does It Cost,” 167 retailers were asked to provide official statements and supporting records regarding their pricing.
Since October 9, 2025, 31 administrative violation reports have been issued by the commission for unjustified price increases, based on regulations related to Bulgaria’s euro adoption. The Consumer Protection Commission has stated that it will continue broadening the scope of its inspections to other economic sectors as well. Their main goal, according to the CPCo, remains protecting consumers, maintaining market transparency, and ensuring fair and honest business practices as the country transitions to the euro.
