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This was announced by CPC Chairperson Assoc. Prof. Rosen Karadimov during the Annual Meeting of Local Governments organized by the National Association of Municipalities. The analysis shows that although retail prices of staple foods remained stable during the summer months, the upward trend in wholesale food prices persisted.

The CPC conducted a sectoral study of the food market, collecting data from around 50 retail chains and independent stores covering approximately 500 branches in 25 cities. Additional information was obtained from the National Revenue Agency and the Consumer Protection Commission, with which the CPC collaborates under an agreement to monitor prices ahead of Bulgaria’s adoption of the euro. Data from the Confederation of Bulgarian Trade Unions were also included.

Karadimov emphasized that Bulgaria’s preparation for joining the eurozone has prompted the CPC to launch such economic analyses. The initial focus was on the food and pharmaceutical markets, with preliminary findings on staple foods to be published soon. He noted that persistent structural issues stemming from historical privatization and market power concentration continue to pose challenges.

At the request of the Confederation of Bulgarian Trade Unions, the CPC also initiated a detailed investigation into the dairy market, where more than 80% of milk purchases are controlled by certain traders. Karadimov concluded that the goal of these analyses is not only to ensure fair competition but also to promote transparency and predictability in pricing, especially ahead of Bulgaria’s transition to the euro.