Bulgaria Sees Record Influx of Non-EU Workers, but Labor Shortages Persist
Bulgaria has seen a record influx of workers from non-EU countries in recent years, yet the demand for labor in various industries remains unmet
The installation of ticket vending machines for trains will begin at stations in Sofia and eventually expand to other stations across the country, according to Transport Minister Grozdan Karadjov in response to a parliamentary query. However, the rollout will occur only after the software for these machines receives certification from the Bulgarian Institute of Metrology, which has already received an application for approval.
Minister Karadjov reminded that in 2020, 30 vending machines were delivered and placed at 24 stations throughout the country. To ensure full integration of functionalities into the Ticket Issuance System, a public procurement process was initiated in 2023 to upgrade the system, including adding a module for ticket sales via vending machines.
The contract awarded as part of this procurement also involves providing handheld PDA devices for issuing and validating tickets on trains, as well as ensuring their connectivity. After receiving complaints from potential bidders, the procedure was temporarily suspended by a court decision. As a result, "BDZ - Passenger Transport" started a new procedure, which included developing software for the vending machines. This led to the signing of a contract with "Information Services" last year.
A national protest has been organized by various restaurant associations in Bulgaria against the government's decision to reintroduce a 20% VAT rate for the industry
The 14 victims from the fire in Kocani who were transported for treatment in Bulgaria remain in serious condition
Evanna Lynch, the beloved actress who portrayed Luna Lovegood in the "Harry Potter" film series, will be a special guest at Aniventure Comic Con 2025
On March 18, 2025, Bulgaria will experience a notable weather shift
The Bulgarian Ministry of Education and Science is launching an initiative to train teachers to lead discussions with students on critical social issues following the tragic incident in Kocani, North Macedonia
The Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works has proposed an increase in vignette and toll fees
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